In Week 7 of the NFL season, the New England Patriots will feature key players Stefon Diggs and Harold Landry III, both confirmed active for their matchup against the Tennessee Titans. This development comes after Diggs faced a chest injury and Landry dealt with an ankle issue.
Player Updates: Diggs and Landry Ready for Action
Stefon Diggs, the Patriots’ standout wide receiver, has been a pivotal player this season. Despite being listed as questionable due to a chest injury, he showed progress and is set to play. At 31 years old, Diggs leads the Patriots with the most targets, receptions, and receiving yards, cementing his role as a team leader.
His presence enhances the performance of the Patriots’ wide receiver group, which ranks 11th in the league with 879 receiving yards, a significant improvement from last season’s last-place finish. Alongside Diggs, younger receivers like Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, and veteran Mack Hollins contribute to the team’s offensive strategy.
Supporting Cast for the Game
- Offensive Line: LT Campbell, LG Wilson, C Bradbury, RG Onwenu, RT Moses
- Wide Receivers: Diggs, Boutte, Hollins, Douglas, Williams, Chism III
- Tight Ends/Fullbacks: Henry, Hooper, Westover
- Running Backs: Stevenson, Henderson, Jennings
This week, the Patriots have also elevated running back Terrell Jennings, who will serve in a backup role and on kickoff returns. The offensive line remains consistent, having played together for six out of seven games.
Defensive Challenges and Adjustments
On the defensive front, the Patriots continue to face challenges due to injuries. Edge rusher Harold Landry III returns to the lineup after a brief absence, eager to make an impact against the Titans, his former team. Landry, drafted in the second round in 2018, has a notable history with the Titans, ranking seventh in the franchise’s all-time sacks.
Active edge rushers for the game will include Landry, Keion White, K’Lavon Chaisson, and undrafted rookie Elijah Ponder. This week, Anfernee Jennings will not participate, highlighting the importance of depth in the lineup. The Titans’ tackles, Dan Moore Jr. and J.C. Latham, have had their struggles, providing opportunities for Patriots’ edge rushers to capitalize.
Key Defensive Inactives
- Injured Players: S Jaylinn Hawkins (hamstring), CB Charles Woods (knee)
Hawkins will miss his second consecutive game, leading to Kyle Dugger taking his place again. Dugger had a strong performance against the Saints last week, showcasing his capability despite some initial challenges.
Looking Ahead: Game Day Expectations
The Patriots aim to extend their winning streak to four games and achieve a milestone by winning three consecutive road games for the first time since 1961. Currently holding a 4-2 record, a victory on Sunday would be significant, marking a turnaround from last season’s struggles.
Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at Nissan Stadium, where the Patriots hope to build momentum against the Titans.
