Pats Pulpit
The New England Patriots once again were one player short of perfect practice participation on Friday, and as a consequence will have to make a change to their starting lineup come kickoff against the Carolina Panthers.
Rookie guard Jared Wilson, who made an appearance at practice but did not participate, has been ruled out for Sunday’s game. The third-round draft pick, who had been on the field for all 205 offensive snaps over the first three weeks of the season, is dealing with knee and ankle injuries that kept him out for all three practices of the week.
Here is the full injury report heading into the upcoming 1 p.m. ET kickoff at Gillette Stadium.
With Wilson out, the Patriots will insert veteran Ben Brown into their starting lineup against the Panthers.
“Ben’s here because we believe in him,” head coach Mike Vrabel said on Friday. “He’s worked at center, he’s worked at guard through camp, and again, he’ll compete. I’m excited to see him play. Everybody’s here for a reason. Take advantage of your opportunity, and I’m sure that Ben will do that.”
While the Patriots’ left guard will miss Sunday’s game, their right guard is also questionable to play in the contest. After not being listed on the practice report all week, Mike Onwenu popped up Friday because of a shoulder issue. The veteran lineman was a full participant, however, and Mike Vrabel mentioned that his inclusion on the list was more procedural than anything.
“We have to do it just for sake of doing it and making sure that we’re following the rules,” Vrabel explained.
Edge K’Lavon Chaisson and cornerback Christian Gonzalez also seem to be trending toward playing. Chaisson was a full participant Friday after missing Wednesday’s session and being limited in his return on Thursday, while Gonzalez was limited all week.
Wide receiver Mack Hollins (hand), tight end Hunter Henry (knee), defensive tackle Christian Barmore (not injury related — other), linebackers Anfernee Jennings (hamstring) and Marte Mapu (neck), and cornerback Carlton Davis (Achilles) are entering the weekend without an injury designation.
