Patriots Injury Update: Harold Landry Sits Out Final Practice Before Divisional Clash with Texans
As the Patriots gear up for their divisional-round showdown against the Texans, all eyes are on the injury report-and one key absence stands out. Starting outside linebacker Harold Landry was the lone Patriot missing from Friday’s final practice, raising questions about his availability for Sunday’s high-stakes matchup.
Landry, who returned to action in last week’s wild-card win over the Chargers after a two-week layoff with a knee injury, had been trending in a cautious direction all week. He was limited in both Wednesday’s and Thursday’s sessions, and his absence Friday suggests the team is taking no chances with a lingering issue. Whether this is a setback or just a strategic rest day remains to be seen, but it’s certainly something to monitor heading into the weekend.
On a more encouraging note, rookie cornerback Christian Gonzalez appears to be trending the right way. After wearing a red non-contact jersey during Wednesday’s practice while working through concussion protocol, Gonzalez was back in a standard blue jersey Thursday and practiced fully. That’s a positive development for a secondary that will need all hands on deck against a Texans offense that’s been heating up.
Also spotted on the field Friday were cornerback Alex Austin (wrist) and running back Terrell Jennings (concussion protocol), both currently on injured reserve. While their presence doesn’t guarantee activation, it’s a sign they’re progressing and could be in the mix if the Patriots decide to shuffle the roster.
Speaking of the roster, New England currently has an open spot on the 53-man unit after waiving running back D’Ernest Johnson earlier this week. Johnson has since rejoined the practice squad and remains a candidate to be elevated for Sunday’s game.
If the team opts for more backfield depth behind Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson, Johnson could be the next man up. Alternatively, the Patriots could activate Jennings if he’s cleared in time.
With kickoff looming, the Patriots are keeping their cards close to the vest. But between Landry’s status, Gonzalez’s return, and the looming roster decisions, there’s no shortage of intrigue as New England prepares for its next playoff test.