Kyle Dugger, Efton Chism III, Keion White Inactive for Sunday’s Browns Game
In a significant development for the New England Patriots, several key players have been marked inactive for their upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns. Notably, safety Kyle Dugger, nursing a knee injury, will not participate. In addition, defensive end Keion White and wide receiver Efton Chism III are also listed as inactive.
Patriots’ Inactive List for Sunday
- S Kyle Dugger (knee)
- DE Keion White
- WR Efton Chism III
- LB Caleb Murphy
- DT Eric Gregory
- G Caedan Wallace
- QB Tommy DeVito (emergency)
The Patriots face challenges in managing their game-day roster, having to declare seven players inactive. With 53 players available and two practice squad elevations, the team must navigate tough roster decisions.
Roster Impact and Expectations
Efton Chism III had recently seen limited action as a blocker and primary kickoff returner. Meanwhile, Keion White’s absence raises questions, as he played 16 snaps in Week 7 despite facing difficulties at edge rusher.
With Chism out, the Patriots may turn to second-round pick TreVeyon Henderson or third-round wide receiver Kyle Williams for kickoff returns.
Browns Defense Challenges
The task ahead for quarterback Drake Maye is daunting. Facing a formidable Browns defense, recognized for their impressive metrics, will be a crucial test for the Patriots. The Browns rank fifth in DVOA and lead the NFL in both pass-rush and run-stop efficiencies.
Supporting Cast for QB Drake Maye
| Offensive Line | Receivers | Running Backs | Tight Ends |
|---|---|---|---|
| LT Campbell | WRs Diggs, Boutte, Hollins, Douglas, Williams | Stevenson, Henderson, Jennings | Henry, Hooper, Westover (FB) |
Maye will benefit from having his full supporting cast, with no other key contributors sidelined. The steady offensive line is expected to face Myles Garrett and his teammates effectively as they execute their game plan.
Defensive Adjustments for the Patriots
Dugger’s inactivity shifts the safety responsibilities back, allowing rookie Craig Woodson to play with Jaylinn Hawkins returning from injury. This adjustment reflects the Patriots’ trend toward deeper safety coverages, switching to two-high formations more frequently than in previous seasons.
The Browns offense presents unique challenges, especially in their targeting of tight ends. Both David Njoku and rookie Harold Fannin Jr. have performed well, placing additional pressure on the Patriots’ defensive schemes.
Pats’ Defensive Rankings
The Patriots have struggled against tight ends, ranking 23rd in yards allowed per game. The matchup with Njoku will be pivotal in determining defensive effectiveness.
As the game approaches with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium, the focus will remain on how the Patriots handle the absence of key players and manage the imposing Browns’ defense.
