Mike Vrabel just dropped an update on veteran edge rusher Harold Landry that probably isn’t what Patriots fans wanted to hear, confirming the former Pro Bowl defender is still nowhere close to hitting the field.
The Long Road Back for a Game-Wrecker
Landry has been stuck on the physically unable to perform list ever since the season kicked off, a tough break for a guy who led the team with a whopping 8.5 sacks last year. He’s been recovering from offseason knee surgery, and it sounds like the team is playing it super cautious with his return. Vrabel didn’t mince words when asked about a timeline. “Well of course the plan for him would be to return at some point when he’s ready to go… he just isn’t ready to go yet,” Vrabel told reporters, a quote that pretty much says it all. You can feel the frustration, right?
Who’s Stepping Up in His Place?
Losing a talent like Landry, a true game-wrecker, is a huge hit to any pass rush. But his absence has opened the door for some other guys to shine. Elijah Ponder is having a breakout season, which is awesome to see. And then there’s rookie edge rusher Gabe Jacas, who’s already impressing early in his first year. Plus, Dre’Mont Jones has been a solid veteran presence, bringing pressure and playing tough against the run. The Patriots might not be stacked with big names on the edge, but they’re still finding ways to make plays, which says a lot about that defensive unit’s depth.
So, for now, the wait for Landry continues as the Patriots gear up to face the New York Jets. His return would be a major boost to that pass rush, no doubt, but until he’s actually ready, these other guys have to keep stepping up and finding ways to bring the heat. You gotta hope they can keep that pressure coming against the Jets.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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