Mike Vrabel provides injury updates on Christian Gonzalez, Rhamondre Stevenson and Mack Hollins
The New England Patriots are coming off a big win over the Buffalo Bills. But their list of injuries continues to grow as they head into this weekend's game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
As was the case last week, star cornerback Christian Gonzalez did not practice on Wednesday, the team's first session of the week.
Before practice began, head coach Mike Vrabel was asked about wide receiver Mack Hollins, who left with a calf injury during the win over the Bills and didn't return, and running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who limped off on one of the game's final plays.
Vrabel said that neither would practice Wednesday. Hollins and Gonzalez were later listed on the team's practice report as missing the session. Stevenson was listed as limited participation. Carlton Davis did not participate, listed with a neck injury.
After Sunday's game, Vrabel said of Hollins, "I don't know if he'll be able to practice here for a couple days." Hollins spoke to reporters in the locker room Wednesday, saying he hopes to practice this week but will rely on the medical team to determine what's best.
Vrabel said defensive tackle Christian Barmore, who didn't practice last week and missed the game, would do some things on Wednesday. He was listed as a limited participant.
When will A.J. Brown return?
Though the Patriots are shorthanded at wide receiver, one big name is getting closer to a return.
A.J. Brown, who suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 1, is eligible to return next week against the New York Jets.
It's not clear if Brown will be activated from injured reserve for the Jets game. There have been mixed reports about his targeted return. But on Wednesday, Brown was spotted in the locker room, wearing cleats, with no noticeable limp.
Vrabel was asked if he expects anything for Brown next week.
"He won't be out there today, I can promise you that because he's not eligible," Vrabel said. "I can only speak to what I know for today."
Drake Maye named AFC Offensive Player of the Week
In other Patriots news on Wednesday, quarterback Drake Maye was rewarded for his performance against the Bills.
Maye was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week after throwing for 269 yards, rushing for 54 more and passing for three touchdowns.
"It's great to see him be recognized for his performance and helping us win. I want us to win those awards every single week, whether that's Drake or anyone on offense, or performances we could have on defense or on special teams," Vrabel said.