FOXBORO — The Patriots’ protection might be shorthanded this week in opposition to the Browns.
Rookie beginning security Craig Woodson (ankle) was current however restricted Thursday for the group’s second observe of the week. Woodson has began each recreation this season and leads the protection in snaps.
Fellow beginning security Jaylinn Hawkins, who missed two straight video games with a hamstring damage, was a full participant in observe Wednesday and will return to motion this week. If Woodson can’t play, then Kyle Dugger probably would step up in his place to begin.
Rookie outdoors linebacker Elijah Ponder (knee) returned for the beginning of Thursday’s observe after lacking Wednesday’s session. Ponder has primarily contributed on particular groups this season. The Patriots acquired outdoors linebacker Caleb Murphy off waivers from the Chargers this week. Murphy is an skilled particular groups participant. The Patriots even have Harold Landry III, Okay’Lavon Chaisson, Keion White and Anfernee Jennings obtainable on the sting. Jennings was a wholesome scratch in Week 7 and will take over Ponder’s spot on the lively gameday roster if the rookie can’t go on Sunday in opposition to the Browns.
