The New England Patriots released the final injury report of the season on Friday, and four players have already been ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
Christian Gonzalez, Ben Brown, Jabrill Peppers and Ja’Lynn Polk have all been ruled out for the game. Meanwhile, Drake Maye was included in a list of six players deemed questionable to play in the season finale.
Maye’s status for the game is particularly interesting considering all indications pointed toward him playing on Sunday. He is currently dealing with a right hand injury, but coach Jerod Mayo said the injury had “no effect” on the rookie quarterback at practice.
Gonzalez’s injury is notable as well. He is a valued part of the secondary and a linchpin for the defense overall. However, his stellar season will end with him in concussion protocol after suffering a head injury in last week’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.
Another notable injury is safety Kyle Dugger, who is listed with an ankle/quadriceps injury.
Patriots Friday injury report and #BUFvsNE game statuses: https://t.co/d07cTgLPNn pic.twitter.com/RQbwngBptM
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) January 3, 2025
The Patriots are banged up heading into the season finale against a Bills team expected to rest their starters for the playoffs. It’s one final shot to see this particular group on the field with a busy offseason ahead.
