The New England Patriots have announced their inactives for tonight's game against the Baltimore Ravens:
Alfonzo Dennard, CB
Brandon Deaderick, DL
Jake Bequette, DL
Justin Francis, DL
Aaron Hernandez, TE
Shane Vereen, RB
Nick McDonald, OC
Quick thoughts:
- The news here is who is playing: wide receiver Brandon Lloyd. Lloyd injured his hamstring during the week, and was listed as questionable, but will play tonight, which is key for the Patriots offense.
- The Patriots' two new additions, receiver Deion Branch and tight end Kellen Winslow, are both active and will play tonight. In fact, the Patriots are bringing four active tight ends to the game: Rob Gronkowski, Winslow, Michael Hoomanawanui, and offseason pick-up Daniel Fells. Fells will make his debut tonight, after missing most of training camp and the first two regular season games with a shin injury.
- Aaron Hernandez and Justin Francis were both ruled out earlier in the week, while Deaderick and Dennard were ruled out yesterday. Aside from that, the only other notable inactives are Shane Vereen and Jake Bequette. I thought Bequette might make his NFL debut tonight, with Deaderick out, but apparently that will not be the case. Shane Vereen also appeared close to making his 2012 debut, but it looks as if that will have to wait another week. Nick McDonald, listed as questionable with a shoulder injury, also remains out tonight.