Patriots Demario Douglas Leads 3 to Watch vs. Jets

Calvin Anderson

Despite the absence of rookie lineman Sidy Sow (concussion,) New England's offensive line has the chance to be at its healthiest since the start of the season. Startin left tackle Trent Brown is expected to return to the lineup, while second-year guard Cole Strange should help anchor the left side. After splitting time with rookie Atonio Mafi in Week 2, starting right guard Michael Onwenu is likley to see an increase in snaps.  

Still, the Pats are not without their question marks along an overall struggling line. With Sow out, Calvin Anderson is expected to get the start at right tackle. Anderson was credited with allowing a sack on Jones, while surrendering three quarterback hits during last week's loss to the Dolphins. The veteran tackle had his share of difficulties in containing Dolphins' edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel, whose speed and spin moves got the better of him on several occasions. In Week 3, the task gets even more difficult against Jets edge rusher Bryce Huff. With Huff's speed, as well as defensive end John Franklin-Myers providing pressure in base formations, Anderson will need to prove himself up to the formidable challenge posed by New York's defensive front. 

Perimeter Cornerback: Next Man Up?

With Jonathan Jones ruled out for Week 3, the Pats will turn to their already thin cornerback depth to fill the spot along the perimeter, opposite rookie Christian Gonzalez. Despite his ability to align in multiple positions within the Pats secondary, Jalen Mills played a majority of his time at perimeter corner for the past two seasons. Despite missing seven games last season, Mills was able to log 31 tackles, five pass break-ups and intercept two passes. In the process, he held opposing quarterbacks to completing only 27-of-45 for 333 yards when targeting him. Though he has seemingly made a positional switch to safety, his multi-faceted skill set will allow him to provide Gonzalez with assistance on the boundary.

Gonzalez, in turn, will have his hands full in attempting to contain New York's top wideout Garrett Wilson

Reserve corner Shaun Wade is the definition of potential versus performance. In seven games played for the Pats since 2021, he has compiled just five tackles (one for loss) in limited duty. At his best, Wade is aggressive at the catch point, while showing an ability to read his opponent. Despite a limited pro resume, he should receive plenty of attention, as well as opportunity to make an impression. Given his abilities to align either in the slot or on the outside, Wade may now get the chance to showcase his versatility for the first time at the pro level.