The Patriots left Buffalo with a statement win, but the injury picture around the roster is still messy heading into Sunday’s matchup with the Raiders.
Christian Gonzalez was absent from Wednesday’s practice again, just as he had been last week. The star cornerback did not take part in the team’s first session of the week.
Mike Vrabel also addressed two more injury situations before practice: wide receiver Mack Hollins, who came out of the Bills game with a calf issue and did not return, and running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who was hurt on one of the final plays. Vrabel said neither player would practice Wednesday.
“There's a chance he could play [Sunday],” Vrabel said of Stevenson. “There's just no chance he could practice today.”
Hollins’ status remains less clear. Vrabel said after Sunday’s game, “I don't know if he'll be able to practice here for a couple days.” Hollins was in the locker room Wednesday and said he hopes to get on the field this week, though he’ll lean on the medical staff to decide what’s best.
There was at least a little movement on defensive tackle Christian Barmore, who did not practice last week and missed the game. Vrabel said Barmore would do some things Wednesday.
On the offensive side, one notable name is getting closer to a return. A.J.
Brown, who suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 1, is eligible to come back next week against the New York Jets. It’s still unclear whether he’ll actually be activated off injured reserve for that game, and reports have varied on his target return.
But Brown was in the locker room Wednesday wearing cleats and didn’t appear to have a noticeable limp.
Vrabel kept his comments measured when asked about Brown’s status for next week.
“He won't be out there today, I can promise you that because he's not eligible,” Vrabel said. “I can only speak to what I know for today.”
There was also some individual recognition for Drake Maye, who was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week after his performance against the Bills. Maye threw for 269 yards, ran for 54 more and passed for three touchdowns.
“It’s great to see him be recognized for his performance and helping us win. I want us to win those awards every single week, whether that's Drake or anyone on offense, or performances we could have on defense or on special teams,” Vrabel said.
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