The New England Patriots will be without starting running back Rhamondre Stevenson and wide receiver Kayshon Boutte for their upcoming road game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on November 5, 2023. Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed that Stevenson will miss the game due to a persistent toe injury, while Boutte is sidelined with a hamstring issue. This opens the door for rookie TreVeyon Henderson to make his second consecutive start.
Stevenson’s absence was felt last week during the Patriots’ match against the Atlanta Falcons, where Henderson stepped up significantly. He played a season-high 51 offensive snaps and recorded a team-leading 55 rushing yards on 14 carries. Additionally, he contributed four receptions for 32 yards. The Patriots’ depth at running back will also see the first-year player Terrell Jennings, who provides a more powerful running style complementing Henderson’s speed.
In response to injuries, the Patriots elevated veteran running back D’Ernest Johnson from the practice squad last week and are expected to do so again. Johnson’s experience will be crucial against a Buccaneers defense that has registered 15 sacks in its last three games, indicating a formidable challenge for the Patriots’ offensive line.
Boutte has been a key player for the Patriots this season, leading the team with five touchdown receptions and ranking second with 431 receiving yards from 23 catches. With his absence, Vrabel indicated that rookie Kyle Williams, selected in the third round from Washington State, should prepare for an expanded role. He will join other receivers including Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, and DeMario “Pop” Douglas in filling the void left by Boutte.
Additionally, starting linebacker Christian Elliss will miss the game due to a hip injury. Elliss ranks second on the team with 43 tackles and is an integral part of the special teams. His spot alongside starter Robert Spillane may be taken by either four-year veteran Jack Gibbens, seven-year veteran Jahlani Tavai, or third-year player Marte Mapu.
The Patriots enter the match against the Buccaneers with a record of 7-2, riding a six-game winning streak. They are currently undefeated on the road this season, boasting a 4-0 record, a statistic they share with the Seattle Seahawks as the only teams in the NFL without a road loss this year. As the Patriots prepare to face a strong Buccaneers team, the impact of these injuries will be closely monitored as they aim to extend their winning streak.
