The New England Patriots are dealing with a difficult injury situation heading into Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, but an important development involving one of their opponent’s biggest offensive weapons could provide some relief.

Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty is officially questionable for the Week 5 matchup at Gillette Stadium after dealing with ankle and foot problems. The second-year running back did not participate in Friday’s practice, creating uncertainty about his availability against a Patriots team already missing several important defensive contributors.

New England enters the game at 2-2 after its victory over Buffalo, while Las Vegas arrives with a 3-1 record. The Patriots have an opportunity to build momentum before the season reaches its middle stages, but their extensive injury list could make that considerably more difficult.

Jeanty’s Injury Could Change Raiders’ Offensive Approach

Jeanty has been a significant part of the Raiders’ offense through four games. The former Boise State standout has carried the ball 78 times for 264 yards while adding 19 receptions for 165 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver gives Las Vegas another option when quarterback Kirk Cousins needs to move the offense.

Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty was not on the field for the media portion of practice today. Per: @ryanmcfadden_ Interesting development. https://t.co/bLjkNRk6Vi

— Savage (@Savageboston) October 9, 2026

The running back was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice before being limited Thursday and missing Friday’s session entirely. Raiders coach Klint Kubiak has not ruled him out, but his status creates a legitimate question about how Las Vegas will approach Sunday’s game. Rookie Mike Washington Jr. would be positioned for an increased workload if Jeanty cannot play.

That possibility could benefit New England, although the Patriots have significant concerns of their own. Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III are both out with injuries, leaving the secondary without two important defensive backs. Channing Canada and Karon Prunty also have been ruled out, creating additional problems with depth at cornerback.

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Patriots Still Face Major Challenge Against Las Vegas

The Raiders will also be without receivers Jalen Nailor and Dont’e Thornton, along with offensive lineman Trey Zuhn. However, tight end Brock Bowers practiced fully Friday and did not receive an injury designation for Sunday, giving Cousins an important receiving option regardless of Jeanty’s availability.

New England’s offensive situation also deserves attention. Receiver Mack Hollins and fullback Reggie Gilliam are out, while running back Rhamondre Stevenson is questionable. Quarterback Drake Maye practiced fully despite appearing on the injury report with a right shoulder issue and was not assigned a game status.

The Patriots also must account for a Las Vegas defense that has produced an NFL-leading nine takeaways through four games. That makes protecting the football particularly important for Maye and an offense looking to establish greater consistency.

Jeanty’s status could become one of the most important developments before kickoff. If he cannot play, New England might have one fewer dangerous offensive weapon to contain. However, the Patriots’ depleted secondary and the Raiders’ ability to create turnovers mean this matchup remains challenging regardless of the running back’s final designation.

New England hosts Las Vegas on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.

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