The New England Patriots released their first Super Bowl week injury report on Wednesday, a day before official practices start. As expected by many, most of the attention centered on quarterback Drake Maye. While Maye did appear on the report, he was listed as limited.
Because the Patriots did not practice during their bye week, all designations were estimates.
Patriots Injury Report Outlook
Maye was listed as a limited participant due to a right shoulder injury, confirming the speculation from several people on social media that he injured his shoulder during the AFC Championship Game. The second-year quarterback played every snap in New England’s 10- 7 win over the Denver Broncos.
During the game, Maye absorbed several hits to his throwing shoulder but continued to push the ball downfield. He had several physical runs that helped secure the victory, but added to the hits on the signal caller.
During his weekly radio appearance, Head Coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged earlier this week that no player is fully healthy at this stage of the season. “There’s not a player on our team that’s 100% healthy,” Vrabel said.
From the Patriots’ perspective, Maye being labeled as limited rather than questionable or doubtful is a positive sign.
With nearly two full weeks before kickoff, the injury appears to be more about managing his reps. It would be more than a surprise if Maye were not under center on February 8.
Other Injuries to Watch for Both Teams
Wide receiver Mack Hollins was also listed as a limited participant due to an abdominal injury. Hollins returned from injured reserve just before the AFC Championship and quickly made an impact. He recorded two catches for 51 yards. Hunter Henry was also listed as DNP.
The impact, however, goes past the passing game with Hollins helping out a lot in the run game, specifically with blocking.
On defense, linebacker Robert Spillane and edge rusher Harold Landry were listed as non-participants. Spillane exited the win over Denver early with an ankle injury, while Landry has been managing a knee issue since the regular season. Landry’s pass-rushing presence is a key piece of the Patriots’ defensive scheme, making his status one to monitor for Santa Clara.
Seattle enters the week with its own concerns. Quarterback Sam Darnold was listed as limited with an oblique injury, and All-Pro linebacker Ernest Jones was projected as a non-participant due to a chest issue.
In total, the Seahawks had 11 players appear on their estimated report, setting up an injury watch for both teams as Super Bowl week continues.
