Patriots could catch a break in home opener against Steelers

Starting cornerback Carlton Davis III is officially questionable to play the Patriots’ home opener against the Steelers on Sunday.

Davis is dealing with a neck injury and didn’t practice Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. Head coach Mike Vrabel said the team could update his status depending on how he feels when he reports to the facility on Saturday.

Rookie backup offensive tackle Dametrious Crownover was ruled out for Week 2 with a knee injury.

Outside linebacker Dre’Mont Jones (foot) and guard/center Ben Brown (knee) are both questionable.

Steelers starting wide receiver Michael Pittman is also questionable to play after missing practice Thursday and Friday. If he can’t go on Sunday, it would make Davis’ potential absence less impactful.

Pittman and DK Metcalf would be a potential size mismatch for backup cornerbacks Marcus Jones and Charles Woods.

Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is out as he continued to seek a contract extension. Offensive tackle Troy Fautanu (ankle) is questionable, but he was a full participant in practice Friday.