Patriots Clear Path for Playoff Reinforcements With Key Roster Cuts

With playoffs right around the corner, the New England Patriots are going to need everyone to be at full strength, and it seems they are set to get two key players back very soon.

On Monday, the Patriots released veteran center Brendan Jaimes and young cornerback Mike Battle. And with those two roster spots open, it seems the plan is to activate two players from injured reserve.

Star defensive tackle Milton Williams was eligible to return last week and did participate in practice, but was not activated for the game against the Jets. As for Will Campbell, head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters that the plan is for the left tackle to return to practice this week as well.

Mike Vrabel Provides Interesting Details On Why Will Campbell Traveled With The Team While On Injured Reserve

GettyNew England Patriots left tackle Will Campbell

Despite having been on injured reserve, Campbell has remained involved with the team and even made the trip to Baltimore and New Jersey to support them even though he can’t play.

“Will cares deeply about this team and the players on it,” Vrabel said when asked about this on Monday. “That was his decision. I usually would rather these guys stay, get some rest, recover, and get treatment. Once he started feeling good enough to travel, he asked to go. It can only help him to be around his teammates and be in the game.”

Vederian Lowe Reflects On Filling In For Will Campbell

GettyVederian Lowe of the New England Patriots

With Campbell out, Vederian Lowe has stepped in at left tackle and impressed.

“I’m glad that they’ve been able to trust me enough to put me out there to protect such a great player like Drake [Maye],” Lowe said. “Drake has had a phenomenal year and Will has done a fantastic job. Sitting behind there, watching what the O-line has done this season, I wanted to make sure that when I got in, there wasn’t a drop-off.”

Mack Hollins Placed On Injured Reserve Ahead of Jets Game

GettyMack Hollins 

Vrabel confirmed on Monday that Hollins sustained an abdomen injury in the Patriots’ win over the Baltimore Ravens, which ultimately led to him being placed on injured reserve. And with that, it means he’s sidelined for at least two of the team’s playoff games.

He will be eligible to return if the team makes it to the AFC Championship game. But is that even a possibility?

“We won’t be able to see him for another three weeks,” Vrabel said. “At that point in time, we would make a decision. I hope that’s one that we could make, but right now, I don’t think I can predict anything.”

Vrabel also took a moment to speak about the veteran’s impact on this team.

“Mack means a lot to this football team,” Vrabel detailed. “His personality, his spirit, I’ve talked about that a bunch, and he wanted to travel with us and be here and support… We’ll need him to make contributions off the field as we move forward.”

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