Christmas is only three days away but before that, the New England Patriots will play their next game: on Christmas eve, the team will host the New York Jets. The Patriots will try to stay ahead in the race for the number one seed in the AFC — and a look at the latest injury report shows that they are relatively healthy while doing so:
WR Danny Amendola (Ankle): Did not participate
LB Dont’a Hightower (Knee): Did not participate
TE Martellus Bennett (Ankle/Shoulder): Limited participation
QB Tom Brady (Thigh): Limited participation
SS Jordan Richards (Knee): Limited participation
WR Matthew Slater (Foot): Limited participation
As has been the case yesterday, New England’s practice report is short but does include some big names. The biggest — Tom Brady — was once again limited due to a thigh issue; his status did not change. The same is true for the rest of the list as well with one notable exception: Pro Bowl linebacker Dont’a Hightower.
After being limited yesterday, the defensive team captain was held out of today’s session. However, according to Jeff Howe, Hightower simply needed rest today and should be good to go on Saturday unless the team opts to give him additional rest.
The Patriots’ injury list is already fairly short and their upcoming opponent’s is getting shorter — i.e. healthier — as well. Let’s take a look at the Jets’ Thursday practice report:
RB Matt Forte (Knee/Shoulder): Did not participate
LB Lorenzo Mauldin (Ankle): Did not participate
DT Steve McLendon (Hamstring): Did not participate
WR Brandon Marshall (Shoulder/Back): Limited participation
RB Khiery Robinson (Leg): Limited participation
DT Muhammad Wilkerson (Ankle): Limited participation
TE Brandon Bostick (Ankle): Full participation
CB Nick Marshall (Illness): Full participation
TE Brent Qvale (Hamstring): Full participation
CB Buster Skrine (Concussion): Full participation
DT Leonard Williams (Chest): Full participation
QB Bryce Petty (Chest): Full participation
Compared to yesterday, New York upgraded five players: cornerbacks Nick Marshall and Buster Skrine, tight ends Brandon Bostick and Brent Qvale as well as defensive lineman Leonard Williams. On the other side of the spectrum, Matt Forte, Lorenzo Mauldin and Steve McLendon all missed their second straight day of practice.