Patriots’ Secondary Faces Major Test Against Browns

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ago 10 hours

The New England Patriots are set to face significant challenges in their secondary during their upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns. The absence of safety Kyle Dugger, due to a knee injury, is a major concern for the Patriots’ defense.

Patriots’ Secondary Faces Major Test

Dugger has been a key player in the last two games, stepping in for Jaylinn Hawkins, who has been sidelined with a hamstring issue. This week, Dugger was listed as questionable but ultimately is inactive for the matchup against the Browns.

Injury Impact and Player Adjustments

The Patriots are expected to start Jaylinn Hawkins and rookie Craig Woodson in the safety positions. Additionally, the team has Dell Pettus and Brenden Schooler available on the depth chart. In light of Dugger’s absence, veteran safety Richie Grant has been elevated from the practice squad to add experience to the roster.

Kyle Dugger: Inactive due to knee injury
Jaylinn Hawkins: Returning after a two-week absence
Craig Woodson: Rookie expected to start
Richie Grant: Newly elevated safety with prior experience in Atlanta

Defensive Strategy and Coaching Insights

Both head coach Mike Vrabel and safeties coach Scott Booker have expressed confidence in their safety depth. Booker emphasized the inevitability of injuries in the NFL and the importance of preparation among all players.

“In the National Football League, the injury rate is 100%,” Booker stated. “We ensure our players get reps and prepare to be starters.”

Challenges Ahead for the Patriots

Hawkins, who started the first five games of the season, has accumulated 23 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and one interception. Grant, a 27-year-old safety, has a strong professional background, including 33 starts with the Atlanta Falcons in recent seasons. Last year, he achieved a career-high 123 tackles.

Dugger Injury: Significantly affects secondary options
Hawkins’ Performance: Key contributor with solid tackle record
Grant’s Experience: Brings depth and competition to the squad

Other surprises on the inactive list include second-round draft pick Keion White, who has not established a consistent role in the defense. Additionally, Efton Chism III, the team’s main kickoff returner, is also inactive this week, further modifying the team’s game plan against the Browns.

The Patriots will look to their remaining resources to adapt to these challenges, relying heavily on the experience and flexibility of their roster. The upcoming game will prove crucial as they navigate these adjustments in their quest for a victory against the Browns.