Patriots vs. Eagles Injury Report: Trent Brown Status?

A notable member of the New England Patriots defensive backfield was absent from practice, while three key players on offense were limited participants.

FOXBORO — After enjoying full attendance from their 53-man roster for practice just one day earlier, a key member of the New England Patriots’ secondary was conspicuous by his absence on Thursday as they prepare for the season-opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. 

With Sunday’s matchup against the Eagles fast approaching, each player’s status for Week 1 is becoming the subject of greater speculation.

Thursday’s full report, along with its potential on-field implications:

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

DID NOT PARTICIPATE

CB Jack Jones — Hamstring

LIMITED PARTICIPATION

OL Michael Onwenu — Ankle

G Cole Strange — Knee

WR DeVante Parker — Knee

What It Means:

While Jones’ hamstring injury limited his participation on Wednesday, it kept him from the practice field altogether less than 24 hours later. While New England enjoys a well-stocked positional group at cornerback, Jones’ athleticism and assertiveness will be missed, should he be unable to suit up against Philadelphia. Jones became a much-needed aggressive presence on the perimeter for the Pats last season. In 13 games [454 defensive snaps] as a rookie, Jones compiled 30 tackles, six passes-defensed, one forced fumble, one recovery and two interceptions, including one for a touchdown return. If healthy, he will be a key factor in attempting to contain Eagles receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. 

Photo Cred: USA Today Images

Though DeVante Parker’s presence on the field continues to yield some optimism regarding his status for Sunday, his knee injury continues to limit his duties. Parker will be under close scrutiny during Friday’s practice. If he remains cautious in his movement, New England may choose to sit the veteran wideout to avert further injury. 

The Patriots did produce some positive news on Thursday with the return of Trent Brown to full duty, after being limited one day prior. In fact, Brown has been removed from the report, making him an almost-certain participant against the Eagles. New England may need Brown’s leadership more than originally thought, as both Michael Onwenu and Cole Strange remain limited at practice.  

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

LIMITED PARTICIPATION

CB Mario Goodrich - Illness

FULL PARTICIPATION

CB Josh Jobe - Illness

What It Means:

While cornerback Josh Jobe returned to full participation for Thursday’s session, second-year defensive back Mario Goodrich was a new addition to the list as being limited with an illness. After spending the entire 2022 season on the practice squad, Goodrich was able to carve out a role as a reserve option to spell both perimeter corner James Bradberry and slot back Avonte Maddox. Though Jobe's illness is not expected to keep him out of action against the Patriots, Goodrich's status should be worth monitoring during Friday's practice. 

The Patriots and Eagles are set for 4:25 p.m. kickoff on Sunday evening from Gillette Stadium.