Patriots’ run game missing key player for first practice of Week 6

A strong running game is always helpful for a young quarterback. Yet as the New England Patriots get ready for Drake Maye's first NFL start this Sunday against the Houston Texans, it looks like their running game could be limited.

On Wednesday, running back Rhamondre Stevenson (foot) was one of two players who did not participate in practice, according to the first injury report of the week. Stevenson had suffered a shin injury late in Sunday's loss to the Miami Dolphins but returned to the game shortly after and told reporters following the game he didn't expect the injury to limit him moving forwards.

Stevenson was one of two Patriots players to miss Wednesday's practice. Safety Kyle Dugger (ankle) remains out as well.

In addition to missing Stevenson, the Patriots' offense is still dealing with a line that is in the process of getting healthy. Tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Layden Robinson (ankle/wrist), and center Nick Leverett (ankle) were all limited on Wednesday.

Six other players were limited as well. That includes new additions to the injury report - defensive tackle Davon Godchaux (elbow) and cornerback Marco Wilson (groin). They join wide receivers Kendrick Bourne (knee) and K.J. Osborn (shoulder), linebacker Sione Takitaki (knee), and cornerback Marcus Jones (groin).

The Patriots had two other players listed as full participants. They are linebacker Anfernee Jennings (shoulder) and cornerback Jonathan Jones (shoulder).

On the other side the Texans are dealing with a number of key injury, with nine players not practicing on Wednesday. That includes running back Joe Mixon (ankle), tackle Laremy Tunsil (ankle), guard Kenyon Green (knee), and safety Jimmie Ward (groin). The team was also without starting receiver Nico Collins, who was placed on IR on Wednesday morning.

The Texans also had a few players limited. That includes Mixon and Collins' backups - Dameon Pierce (hamstring) and Stefon Diggs (not injury related/rest).