Patriots Inactives vs. Broncos: Dennard Inactive Again

The New England Patriots have announced their inactives for their week nine match-up against the Denver Broncos:

Aaron Dobson, WR; Chandler Jones, DE; Zach Moore, DE; Cameron Fleming, RT; James White, RB; Alfonzo Dennard, CB; Jordan Devey, OL

In a bit of a surprise, Alfonzo Dennard is inactive once again. It appears this is a healthy scratch situation, and that Malcolm Butler has surpassed Dennard on the depth chart.

Both newcomers Alan Branch and Jonathan Casillas are active today. Both could play somewhat significant roles, but it remains to be see in exactly what way. Casillas should be in the mix on special teams, while Branch could factor into some base packages as a 3-4 DE or 4-3 DT.

Without Zach Moore, Akeem Ayers should have an even more prominent role as an edge rusher.

The Broncos also announced their inactives for the game:

#Patriots & Broncos inactives. #DENvsNE pic.twitter.com/ZVEugFBMHW

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) November 2, 2014