Patriots Prepare for Week 8 Clash, Kyle Dugger’s Status Uncertain

The New England Patriots are entering their Week 8 matchup against the Cleveland Browns with minimal injury concerns. Safety Kyle Dugger is the only player on the injury report, listed as questionable due to a knee injury. Head coach Mike Vrabel characterized the team’s injury status as “pretty quiet,” indicating a healthy roster heading into the game at Gillette Stadium.

Dugger, who has started in four of the Patriots’ seven games this season, was limited in practice on both Thursday and Friday. His participation was notably restricted, making him the only player not fully engaged during the final practice of the week. In his appearances this season, he has recorded 17 combined tackles, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive efforts. With Jaylinn Hawkins sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Dugger has stepped up, starting the last two games.

In a positive development for the Patriots, Hawkins has also shown progress. He has made 23 tackles, including two for a loss, along with an interception, 1.5 sacks, and two quarterback hits across his five starts this season. If Dugger is unable to play on Sunday, Dell Pettus is expected to see increased playing time. Additionally, special-teamer Brenden Schooler may be called upon to fill in at safety if needed.

Another safety, Craig Woodson, returned to full participation in practice on Friday after missing Wednesday’s session and being limited on Thursday due to an ankle injury sustained in the previous game against Tennessee. Woodson has been a solid contributor during his rookie season, starting all seven games and accumulating 34 tackles, a pass defended, and a fumble recovery.

The Patriots will face the struggling Cleveland Browns, who currently hold a 2-5 record. The Browns listed two players as questionable heading into Sunday’s game: defensive tackle Adin Huntington, who is dealing with a concussion, and tight end David Njoku, who has a knee issue. Both players were limited in practice on Friday. Notably, Browns safety Rayshawn Jenkins (wrist/back) and wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (knee) were also limited but are expected to participate.

As both teams prepare for the clash, the Patriots are looking to leverage their healthy roster against the Browns, aiming to improve their standing in the league. The game promises to be an intriguing contest as both teams vie for crucial victories in the competitive landscape of the NFL.