The [Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) already lost a key starter in Week 2 when offensive lineman Michael Onwenu went down with a leg injury that landed him on injured reserve. Entering Week 3, the health of the defense is a concern as well.
The unit was stellar in a 20-3 win over the Steelers, making Aaron Rodgers feel consistent pressure and holding DK Metcalf in check. A well-coached Jaguars offense could present a bigger challenge, particularly in a road environment.
Adding to that challenge would be a defense that is playing at less than full strength.
Here's a look at the key players on the Patriots' initial injury report for Week 3.
Patriots Injury Report for Week 3
---------------------------------
The Patriots have nine players on Wednesday's injury report ahead of the game against the Jaguars:
**Position**
**Player**
**Injury**
**Practice designation**
LB
Quintayvious Hutchins
Knee
Did not practice
LB
Dre'Mont Jones
Shoulder
Did not practice
S
Craig Woodson
Shoulder
Did not practice
OT
Dametrious Crownover
Knee
Limited
FB
Reggie Gilliam
Knee
Limited
OT
Morgan Moses
Foot
Limited
TE
Eli Raridon
Thigh
Limited
S
Brenden Schooler
Back
Limited
CB
Carlton Davis
Neck
Full
While Carlton Davis' full practice is good news after he missed Week 2, the Patriots saw two defensive starters sit out entirely in pass-rusher Dre'Mont Jones and safety Craig Woodson. LB Quintayvious Hutchins also didn't practice, leaving New England thin on pass-rushers.
Jones was on the injury report with a shoulder injury last week as well but suited up against the Steelers, which should give Patriots fans hope that he will again give it a go on Sunday.
Woodson, meanwhile, is a new addition to the injury report. He exited Sunday's game against the Steelers and was seen in a sling after the win, so the Patriots might have to brace for a key absence in the secondary against Jacksonville.
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