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The New England Patriots will be without six players for their Week 5 game against the Las Vegas Raiders, with four of those absences coming from the cornerback position. Starters Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis have been ruled out due to shoulder and neck injuries, respectively, while backups Karon Prunty and Channing Canada are both sidelined with hamstring issues.
This leaves the Patriots severely shorthanded at cornerback as they prepare to face one of the NFL's most prolific passing offenses this season. With Kirk Cousins and the Raiders set to visit on Sunday, the team's depth at the position is a major concern.
Here's a look at the updated cornerback depth chart:
- 53-man roster: Christian Gonzalez (0), Carlton Davis III (7), Marcus Jones (25 | PR), Charles Woods (22), Channing Canada (29), Karon Prunty (21)
- Practice squad: Kindle Vildor (28), Alzillion Hamilton (26)
As of Friday afternoon, only four cornerbacks are healthy across the active roster and practice squad. On the 53-man team, Marcus Jones and Charles Woods are the sole remaining options, and both are expected to see significant snaps on Sunday. However, even they are not at full strength.
Woods, who was banged up in last week's win over the Buffalo Bills, is listed as questionable with a shoulder injury. Given this, it appears almost certain that Kindle Vildor and recent addition Alzillion Hamilton will be elevated from the practice squad on Saturday.
Additionally, the team has been experimenting with safety Jaylen Reed as a nickel option in practice, and he could also see time on Sunday. As it stands, the likely starting trio at cornerback will consist of Jones, Woods, and Vildor.
Key Analysis
The Patriots' cornerback situation is dire, with four players unavailable and only two healthy corners on the active roster. The expected elevations of Vildor and Hamilton will provide some relief, but the group remains thin against a potent Raiders passing attack. The potential use of Jaylen Reed in the slot adds a layer of versatility, but the team's ability to contain Kirk Cousins and his weapons will be tested. This matchup could hinge on how well the makeshift secondary holds up under pressure.
Originally reported by yahoo.