The New England Patriots don’t have as much talent as most upcoming opponents on their schedule.
One way to close the cap? Not actually facing the best players on those teams.
The Patriots already know they won’t have to deal with Christian McCaffrey when they visit the San Francisco 49ers in Week 4, and it sounds like they also won’t have to worry about covering arguably the most explosive receiver in San Fran’s offense.
Deebo Samuel Reportedly Facing Multi-Week Absence
Samuel suffered a calf strain during the 49ers’ road loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2. The injury reportedly will sideline the star receiver for multiple weeks, including San Francisco’s Week 4 home matchup with the Patriots.
Here’s a video of Samuel suffering his injury:
This appears to be the play where #49ers WR Deebo Samuel hurt his calf. He makes the short catch, is a bit slow to get up. Then is shown grimacing and favoring the leg as he goes to the sideline. He missed one play, returned and played the final offensive snap of the game. pic.twitter.com/EHsixWJMnm
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) September 16, 2024
Samuel was off to a promising start to the season before straining his calf.
The 28-year-old caught five balls for 54 yards while rushing eight times for 23 yards and a touchdown in the 49ers’ season-opening win over the New York Jets. He was even better on Sunday, posting eight catches for 110 yards before exiting the game.
The Patriots still will have their hands full.
Brandon Aiyuk remains one of the best receivers in the NFL despite his slow start, and George Kittle is still a premier tight end. Jauan Jennings also is a solid No. 3 receiver, and running back Jordan Mason has been a revelation while filling in for McCaffrey.
Nevertheless, New England will have one fewer weapon to worry about when it heads west.
Other Key Injured Players New England Patriots Will (or Could) Avoid
We already know of other injured players whom the Patriots won’t have to play against. However, other players’ statuses are unclear, and they could still be nursing injuries by the time their teams play New England.
Here’s an updated list:
New York Jets DE Jermaine Johnson
Jermaine Johnson is out for the rest of the season due to a torn Achilles, so the Patriots won’t have to deal with him when they visit the Jets on Thursday night.
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The third-year pro posted 7.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss in 2023.
Jets LB C.J. Mosley
One of New York’s best players, C.J. Mosley was listed as a non-participant on Monday’s estimated injury report due to a toe injury. His status will be worth monitoring ahead of Thursday night’s kickoff.
Jets CBs Michael Carter II and D.J. Reed.
Michael Carter II and D.J. Reed were listed as limited participants on Monday’s estimated injury report due to ankle and knee injuries, respectively. New England’s struggling passing game could use all the help it can get.
San Francisco 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey
The superstar running back is on the Injured Reserve list due to an Achilles issue and won’t play against the Patriots. Obviously, that’s a massive break for the Patriots, as McCaffrey arguably is the most dangerous offensive skill player in football.
Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa
Tua Tagovailoa suffered a concussion in Week 2, and his status for the Week 5 Patriots-Dolphins game is in doubt. The veteran quarterback reportedly doesn’t plan to retire, but many assume he’ll be held out until at least after Miami’s Week 6 bye.
Los Angeles Rams WRs Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp
Kupp suffered an ankle injury in Week 2 and could miss an “extended period of time,” according to Rams head coach Sean McVay. The Patriots and Rams won’t square off until Week 11 on Nov. 17, so it could be a while before we know whether Kupp will be available.
Nacua suffered a knee injury in the season opener and is already on the IR. He reportedly could be out until Week 9 — if not longer.