The hill could be an even steeper climb than expected for the New England Patriots, who could be without two of their best offensive playmakers in Sunday’s season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson (illness) and wide receiver DeVante Parker (knee) are both listed as questionable to play in Week 1.
Parker is reportedly not expected to play, while Stevenson is expected to be on the field.
Not having Parker in the lineup would be a huge blow for the Patriots considering he’s their No. 1 deep threat option. Injuries have been an issue for the veteran wideout throughout his career, and those issues could haunt him right out of the gates against the defending NFC champions.
That could put the Patriots in a position where they’ll have to lean on their rookie receivers, Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte, to step up and make plays. The two tight ends, Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki, could also be a major factor in the game.
#Patriots RB Rhamondre Stevenson, questionable with an illness, was in meetings yesterday and should play today, source said. Meanwhile, WR DeVante Parker, questionable because of a knee, is not expected to play.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 10, 2023
As for Stevenson, the Patriots have the luxury of lightening his load with the addition of Ezekiel Elliott on the roster. The veteran running back is a former two-time NFL leading rusher and a potential game-changer in the offensive backfield.
Running the football will be key for the Patriots against a ferocious Eagles defensive front that led the league with 70 sacks last season. They’ll have to be at their best to even compete, much less pull off an upset in this matchup.
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