New England’s roster takes another hit as A.J. Brown and TreVeyon Henderson are ruled out for Sunday’s clash with Miami.
Key points
- A.J. Brown is officially out for the Patriots due to a lingering knee issue on top of a high‑ankle sprain.
- TreVeyon Henderson will miss the Dolphins game because of illness, further thinning New England’s offensive depth.
- The Patriots will likely shift more responsibility to backup receivers and running backs, including Demario Douglas and Rhamondre Stevenson.
- Miami’s defense, despite its low ranking in points allowed, presents a key challenge for a Patriots squad dealing with multiple injuries.
The Patriots announced on Saturday that wide receiver A.J. Brown will not suit up against the Dolphins, moving him from a questionable status to out. Brown, 29, had missed four games with a high‑ankle sprain and was dealing with a flare‑up of a knee issue in recent practice, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport.
Running back TreVeyon Henderson was also listed as out, this time due to illness, while offensive tackle Marcus Bryant, who practiced despite an ankle injury, remains unavailable. The team’s injury report reflects a growing list of sidelined players as the Patriots head into their seventh game of the season.
Injury updates from New England
Brown’s production in New England has been modest; he has caught three passes in each of his three appearances, totaling nine receptions for 101 yards and averaging 8.3 yards per catch—well below his career 15.3‑yard average. With fellow wideout Romeo Doubs still on injured reserve, quarterback Drake Maye will likely rely on Demario Douglas, Efton Chism III and Kyle Williams for passing options.
In Henderson’s absence, the Patriots are expected to lean more heavily on Rhamondre Stevenson and possibly incorporate more snaps for Corey Kiner. Despite the injuries, the team faces a Miami defense that ranks 25th in points allowed, and New England will look to stay within striking distance of the AFC East‑leading Buffalo Bills, who sit at 5‑1 while the Patriots are 4‑3.
How the absences could reshape the Patriots’ offense
The game is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium. Both teams will need to adjust their game plans in light of the latest injury news, and the outcome could have implications for the Patriots’ playoff positioning in a tightly contested division.
Reader questions
When might A.J. Brown return to the Patriots’ lineup?
The team has not provided a timeline; Brown is listed as out for this week’s game, and his return will depend on the status of his knee and ankle.
Who are the Patriots’ primary receiving options with Brown and Doubs unavailable?
Drake Maye is expected to target Demario Douglas, Efton Chism III and Kyle Williams, with additional depth from other backups.
How does the Patriots’ current record compare to the AFC East leader?
New England sits at 4‑3, one game behind the Buffalo Bills, who lead the division at 5‑1.
Source: nfl.com
