Patriots' quiet roster move just tipped their hand for Jets game

"The Patriots did navigate their first three games of 2025 without No. 1 cornerback Christian Gonzalez, but since his season debut in Week 4, they haven't lost a game. New England was able to beat both the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers without No. 2 wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, and top running back Rhamondre Stevenson; fortunately, the Patriots had enough depth at those positions to not skip a beat in those games."

"That could change this week. The Patriots face a short turnaround with the New York Jets coming to Foxboro for Thursday Night Football. They're even more depleted at running back with Terrell Jennings now managing a knee issue, and they might've just tipped their hand with Tuesday's subtle practice squad move. New England Patriots rookie TreVeyon Henderson could be in line for RB1 duties once again vs. the New York Jets"

"According to ESPN's Mike Reiss, the Patriots re-signed running back Jonathan Ward to their practice squad on Tuesday; they made room by cutting wide receiver Brenden Rice, who was just signed a week ago. NE practice squad transaction:🏈 Signed: RB Jonathan Ward🏈 Released: WR Brenden RiceANALYSIS: Ward was on p-squad from 10/28 to 11/4 before being replaced by Rice. Return suggests some doubt Rhamondre Stevenson (toe) and/or Terrell Jennings (knee) will be ready Thursday.- Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) November 11, 2025"

Through 10 games, the Patriots have avoided losing a key starter long-term and have won every game since Christian Gonzalez returned in Week 4. New England defeated Atlanta and Tampa Bay despite missing Kayshon Boutte and Rhamondre Stevenson, relying on depth at those positions. A short turnaround with the Jets on Thursday adds risk, as Terrell Jennings now has a knee issue. The Patriots re-signed running back Jonathan Ward to the practice squad, releasing Brenden Rice, signaling uncertainty about Stevenson and Jennings being ready. Ward is a journeyman candidate for elevation; TreVeyon Henderson could again assume RB1 duties.

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