Man, the Patriots are getting absolutely hammered with injuries, especially in that secondary. Head coach Mike Vrabel just announced that cornerbacks Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis, both starters, are out for Sunday’s game against the Raiders. This is Gonzalez’s second straight game missing action with a shoulder issue, and now Davis is sidelined by a neck injury. Talk about a tough break!
The Secondary Is Gutted
It’s not just Gonzalez and Davis, either. Vrabel confirmed that Karon Prunty and Channing Canada, also cornerbacks, are sidelined with hamstring injuries. That’s *four* cornerbacks ruled out for one game! You’ve gotta wonder how they’re even going to field a full unit back there. Vrabel even hinted they might need to make some roster moves just to get enough bodies for the position group. That’s a massive problem going into any game, let alone one this weekend.
Offensive Depth Taking Hits Too
And the hits aren’t solely in the secondary. Wide receiver Mack Hollins is out with a calf injury, and fullback Reggie Gilliam won’t play either due to ankle and knee issues. Hollins’ absence, though, might actually open the door for Efton Chism to step up, especially after he snagged that game-winning touchdown catch back in Week 4. So, there’s at least one silver lining on offense, giving a guy a shot to prove himself.
So, Sunday against the Raiders is going to be a massive test for the Patriots, particularly that patchwork secondary. You know Vrabel is going to have his work cut out for him trying to piece together a game plan with so many key guys missing. It’s tough, but hey, maybe Efton Chism uses this chance to really go off. We’ll find out what they’re made of when they hit the field.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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