Another upcoming Patriots opponent takes a big injury hit
The San Francisco 49ers placed running back Christian McCaffrey on IR on Saturday, meaning he officially won’t be available for the Patriots’ trip to San Francisco in Week 4.
Through two weeks the New England Patriots have played or will play teams missing key offensive players due to injuries. Wide receiver Tee Higgins didn’t play for the Bengals in the Patriots’ season opener, two starters for the Seahawks – running back Kenneth Walker and right tackle George Fant – are listed as doubtful for this Sunday’s game (over 90 percent of players listed as doubtful don’t end up playing that week).
That trend is slated to continue for the Patriots moving forward. On Saturday the San Francisco 49ers – the Patriots’ Week 4 opponent – placed star running back Christian McCaffrey on IR with a leg injury according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. That means McCaffrey will be out at least four weeks, including the Patriots’ trip to San Francisco at the end of September.
Granted, McCaffrey’s absence alone likely isn’t enough to flip the game. The Niners were able to get by without him in Week 1 against the Jets as rookie UDFA Jordan Mason ran for 147 yards and a touchdown on 28 carries. The Niners also have numerous other impactful skill position players like wide receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, and tight end George Kittle.
Looking further ahead, the Patriots could also get a Miami Dolphins offense with a backup quarterback when they return home in Week 5. Tua Tagovailoa suffered a concussion on Thursday night against the Bills, putting his status in doubt for the next few weeks.
Before New England can turn it’s attention to San Francisco or Miami though, there are two games to be played first. The Seahawks visit Gillette Stadium on Sunday, and then the team will have a quick turnaround before traveling to MetLife Stadium to play the New York Jets on Thursday night.
