The New England Patriots were still shorthanded with eight players missing from Tuesday’s practice. However, they did have two major returns with wide receiver Demario Douglas and cornerback Jack Jones back on the field.
Douglas missed Week 6 after suffering a concussion in the Patriots’ loss to the Dallas Cowboys. New England’s receivers have been a major disappointment this season, but Douglas has been one of the only playmakers, along with Kendrick Bourne, that has shown the ability to create separation.
Meanwhile, Jones is being activated off injured reserve after missing the first six games of the season with a hamstring injury. Marcus Jones is still out with an injury, and Jonathan Jones missed Tuesday’s practice. With rookie first-round draft pick Christian Gonzalez also on the shelf, it could pave the way for a significant rep increase for Jack Jones.
ESPN’s Mike Reiss also reported that the Patriots have signed offensive tackle Conor McDermott to the practice squad.
Notes from the Patriots’ work day Tuesday, with TE Mike Gesicki and WR Tyquan Thornton answering questions from reporters:
🏈 CB Jack Jones (hamstring) returns to practice from IR
🏈 WR Pop Douglas (concussion) returns to practice
🏈 OT Conor McDermott signed to practice squad pic.twitter.com/LVG57LJjTT
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 17, 2023
Given the ongoing struggles at right tackle, McDermott’s arrival couldn’t have come at a better time for the team. He was released by the Patriots after reaching an injury settlement in September.
But now, it would appear that he’s healed and ready to contribute to a makeshift offensive line that desperately needs the help.
