The New England Patriots are preparing to host the Los Angeles Chargers, but they’ll do so without cornerback and punt returner Marcus Jones. Jones has been ruled out for the matchup after missing six straight practices due to a hip injury. This marks his second consecutive game absence after sustaining the injury earlier this month against the Arizona Cardinals. So far this season, Jones has recorded 58 tackles, two fumble recoveries, and an interception, along with averaging 14.8 yards per punt return. His absence leaves veteran Alex Erickson as a strong candidate for a second straight practice squad elevation to handle return duties.
Adding to the Patriots’ challenges is uncertainty at the center position. Ben Brown, who has started all 10 games this season and played 100% of the offensive snaps, remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol. While Brown is listed as questionable, his absence would likely shift the responsibility to reserve linemen Lecitus Smith or Cole Strange. Strange, who recently returned from a torn patellar tendon suffered last season, could play a pivotal role if called upon. Head coach Jerod Mayo addressed the situation, stating, “Once they go into the protocol, it’s really out of our hands… We have to have guys ready.”
Several other Patriots players are also questionable for Saturday’s 1 p.m. ET kickoff at Gillette Stadium. The list includes safety Kyle Dugger, who returned to limited practice after battling ankle and quad issues, and linebackers Jahlani Tavai, Titus Leo, and Anfernee Jennings, who were added to the injury report late in the week. Offensive tackle Caedan Wallace and linebacker Curtis Jacobs remain on injured reserve but continue to practice within their 21-day activation windows.
On the Chargers’ side, running back J.K. Dobbins, who has been recovering from a knee injury, is listed as questionable after his return-to-practice window opened this week. However, Los Angeles will be without running back Gus Edwards, guard Trey Pipkins III, and linebacker Denzel Perryman for this key matchup.
