While Friday's release of Antonio Brown has dominated the headlines for the Patriots, what's gone somewhat under the radar is just exactly how shorthanded New England's offense could be on Sunday against the Jets due to injury.
Fullback James Develin, who the Patriots use heavily in their offense as a blocker and a short-distance runner, has been ruled out with a neck injury.
Sticking on the offensive side of the ball, tight ends Ryan Izzo (calf) and Matt LaCosse (ankle) are both listed as questionable. If both Izzo and LaCosse are sidelined, the Patriots would not have an active tight end, as veteran Ben Watson is suspended for the first four games due to testing positive for testosterone.
With Rob Gronkowski retiring in the offseason, the Patriots have not featured their tight ends as much this season as in years past. Pats tight ends have just three catches total over the first two games. The Jets may be in for a heavy dose of Julian Edelman, Josh Gordon, and Phillip Dorsett on the field at the same time.
Meanwhile, starting right tackle Marcus Cannon is questionable with a shoulder injury and will likely be a game-time decision. If Cannon doesn't play, Gregg Williams may look to be even more aggressive than usual in bringing pressure on Tom Brady.
Speaking of Brady, the quarterback did appear on the Patriots' injury report early in the week, as he was limited on Wednesday and Thursday with a calf injury. Brady has frequently appeared on injury reports over the years, only to be perfectly be healthy by game time. Brady was not listed on the final status report entering Sunday.