The Patriots could face another limited offensive line this week
After getting a banged-up Chicago Bears offensive line last week, the New England Patriots could be facing a Los Angeles Rams team this week in a similar position.
Last week the New England Patriots faced a Chicago Bears team down multiple starters on the offensive line, and were able to dominate up front because of it. This week against the Los Angeles Rams, it’s possible the Patriots could find themselves in a similar position.
Two of the Rams’ top tackles – Rob Havenstein (ankle) and Joe Noteboom (ankle) – missed their second consecutive practice on Thursday. Head coach Sean McVay said earlier in the day on Thursday that Havenstein is “less likely than likely” to play on Sunday.
Noteboom started at right tackle in place of Havenstein at right tackle last week. He allowed six pressures and a sack. That was Noteboom’s first game since Week 1, after being activated from IR. If neither can go the Rams would likely turn to Warren McClendon, who has played just 19 snaps since Week 2.
The Rams were without two other players according to Thursday’s injury report with defensive tackle Neville Gallimore (neck) and cornerback Charles Woods (ankle) not participating. Four players were limited including pass rusher Byron Young (knee). Defensive end Kobie Turner (back), cornerback Josh Wallace (hip), and safety Quentin Lake (groin) were added as limited as well.
As for the Patriots, the big change on their end of the report was two additions. Defensive tackle Christian Barmore (not injury related-other) was officially added as he made his return to the field following a blood clot diagnosis that has held him out since training camp. Wide receiver Tyquan Thornton (not injury related-personal) also did not practice after being on the field on Wednesday.
Multiple players were upgraded for the Patriots as well. Linebacker Sione Takitaki (knee) and cornerback Marcellas Dial (concussion) went from non-participants to limited. Cornerback Isaiah Bolden (not injury related-personal) went from a non-participant to a full participant, and tight end Hunter Henry (foot) went from a limited to full participant.
