NFLOct 9
Patriots Deal With Multiple Cornerback Absences Versus Raiders
New England will miss key defensive backs and other contributors in its home matchup this week.
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Cornerback Group Hit Hard
The Patriots will play Sunday without starting cornerbacks Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III. Gonzalez is sitting out his second consecutive contest after a shoulder issue that began in Week 3. Davis is also missing his second game of the season because of a neck concern that first kept him out in Week 2. Backup cornerbacks Karon Prunty and Channing Canada are both unavailable with hamstring injuries.
Additional Players Ruled Out
Fullback Reggie Gilliam will not play because of ankle and knee problems, while receiver Mack Hollins is sidelined with a calf issue. The team expects to make roster adjustments by the 4 p.m. ET deadline on Saturday. Special teams contributor Brenden Schooler is set to come off the reserve/non-football injury list.
Adjustments and Availability
The Raiders enter the game at 3-1, while the Patriots stand at 2-2. With the cornerback shortage, slot corner Marcus Jones is expected to see more outside work, similar to last week. Third-year player Charles Woods has also taken on a larger role despite a shoulder limitation in practice. Kindle Vildor, elevated from the practice squad last week, could see action again. Starting running back Rhamondre Stevenson has been limited this week but remains possible for Sunday.
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