The New England Patriots’ defense continued to be without several starters as the team prepared for Sunday Night Football against the Baltimore Ravens. According to PFSN’s NFL Playoff Predictor, the Patriots have a 69.4% chance to win the AFC East and a 99.9% chance to earn a playoff bid.
Patriots Defense Still Dealing With Key Absences
The Patriots received some positive news Thursday, as linebacker Christian Elliss returned to practice after an illness had limited him the previous day. However, New England was still without Harold Landry III, Robert Spillane, Carlton Davis III, and Marcus Jones. All four players have now missed back-to-back practices, putting their availability for Sunday in doubt.
Elliss’ return is a positive sign for the Patriots. He has been a steady presence this season, starting 10 games and playing just under 50% of the team’s defensive snaps. Elliss has also contributed consistently on special teams, giving New England additional flexibility if injuries persist.
Spillane remains the most notable absence. Although he was active for last week’s game against the Bills, he did not play a single snap as Buffalo rushed for more than 170 yards. Spillane has been seen in the locker room this week wearing a walking boot, and his status remains uncertain.
The cornerback room is also thin, with both Davis and Jones still sidelined. If neither player is able to suit up Sunday, the Patriots would be without two of their top three cornerbacks against one of the league’s most dynamic offenses.
Ravens See Multiple Starters Return to Practice
Baltimore received encouraging news of its own as quarterback Lamar Jackson returned to practice after missing Wednesday’s session. The 2023 NFL MVP is no longer in doubt for Sunday night.
The Ravens also saw several key defenders and offensive linemen return, including Roquan Smith, Kyle Van Noy, and Ronnie Stanley, all of whom were back on the field Thursday after being absent earlier in the week.
Chidobe Awuzie, Teddye Buchanan, and John Jenkins did not practice due to injury or illness, but the team expects all three to return as the week progresses.