Preparing to play two NFL games in five days is tough in any situation. Doing so without three starters adds an extra layer of difficulty.
The New England Patriots announced Wednesday that they’ll be without wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, running back Rhamondre Stevenson, and linebacker Christian Elliss for Thursday night’s AFC East rivalry game against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots will also be without No. 2 tight end Austin Hooper due to a concussion.
Hooper was the only Patriots player to miss all three practices on the short week. That means it’s likely the team will get all four players back for their Week 12 game at Cincinnati on Nov.