Here’s a bold statement: the Patriots’ Week 6 matchup against the Saints in New Orleans could be their biggest test yet, and it’s not just because of the opponent. But here’s where it gets controversial: while many are celebrating their upset win over the Bills, this game might actually be a tougher challenge—not in terms of talent, but in avoiding a letdown after becoming the NFL’s darlings. And this is the part most people miss: managing star players’ health and depth issues could make or break their chances.
The Patriots received some much-needed good news ahead of Sunday’s game at the Caesars Superdome. After being listed as questionable, star cornerback Christian Gonzalez (hamstring) and defensive tackle Milton Williams (illness) are officially active. However, the inactives list includes some key names: linebacker Anfernee Jennings (ankle), safety Jaylinn Hawkins (hamstring), defensive end Keion White (elbow), guard Caedan Wallace, and defensive tackle Eric Gregory. Quarterback Tommy DeVito will serve as the emergency third quarterback.
Gonzalez’s situation is particularly noteworthy. After missing the first three games of the season due to a hamstring injury, he reappeared on the injury report this week, limited in the final two practices. Here’s the controversial part: while Patriots coaches framed his limited participation as part of a maintenance plan, it’s hard not to wonder if this injury could resurface at a critical moment. Cornerbacks coach Justin Hamilton explained, ‘He’s on a plan with [Vrabel] and [director of sports performance] Frank [Piraino]… It’s for him to just be able to get to the pace that he can go at to be able to get out there when we are in the speed periods of practice.’ But how effective will Gonzalez be against Saints receiver Chris Olave, who leads the NFL in targets (54) through five weeks? Olave’s production hasn’t matched his volume, but shutting down Spencer Rattler’s go-to target will be crucial.
Williams, meanwhile, is active despite a late addition to the injury report due to illness. His workload will be worth monitoring, as the Patriots’ defense is already stretched thin. Outside linebackers Jennings and White are out, and starting edge rusher K’Lavon Chaisson is returning from a knee injury. Chaisson, an LSU product playing in his home state, will likely reclaim his starting role opposite Harold Landry. The team also elevated defensive end Truman Jones from the practice squad, with head coach Mike Vrabel praising his practice habits. Jones, a Harvard graduate, impressed during training camp with his speed-to-power ability.
Here’s a thought-provoking question: With so many injuries at edge defender, can the Patriots’ depth hold up against a Saints offense looking to exploit weaknesses? Undrafted rookie Elijah Ponder and linebacker Jahlani Tavai are active, but Tavai’s versatility—playing both on and off the ball—will be tested. Ponder showed promise with a hurry in Week 5, but can he step up in a bigger role?
The secondary faces another challenge with starting safety Jaylinn Hawkins out due to a hamstring injury. Kyle Dugger, who played just one snap last week, will start alongside rookie Craig Woodson. This shift could create a domino effect, with DB Dell Pettus likely taking Dugger’s spot in the ‘big’ nickel package. Is this a recipe for disaster, or an opportunity for younger players to shine?
On offense, undrafted rookie receiver Efton Chism III is active for the first time this season. With top kickoff returner Antonio Gibson out for the year, Chism could make his NFL debut in a special teams role. But here’s the debate: Is it wise to rely on a rookie for such a critical role, or should the Patriots prioritize experience?
At running back, Terrell Jennings was elevated from the practice squad as the third option. While Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson will handle most of the workload, Jennings provides insurance. The bigger question: Can the Patriots afford to risk Stevenson on kickoff returns, or is it time to rethink their special teams strategy entirely?
As the Patriots prepare for kickoff at 1 p.m. ET, one thing is clear: this game will test their resilience, depth, and ability to stay focused. After last week’s primetime victory, can they avoid a letdown against a less-hyped but equally dangerous opponent? What do you think? Is this game a bigger test than the Bills matchup, or are people overthinking it? Let’s hear your take in the comments.
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