The New England Patriots have ruled out wide receiver A.J. Brown and running back TreVeyon Henderson for Sunday’s game against the Miami Dolphins due to injuries and illness. The team also ruled out offensive tackle Marcus Bryant with an ankle injury.
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel confirmed the updates on Saturday, downgrading Brown and Henderson from questionable to out after they did not participate in practice on Thursday or Friday. Brown, who suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 1, has been dealing with a separate knee injury this week. Henderson was listed as questionable due to an illness.
New England’s offense will now be without three players, including Brown, who has struggled with injuries since joining the team in the offseason. The Patriots acquired Brown in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, sending a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick in exchange. Henderson, meanwhile, has 203 rushing yards and one touchdown on 52 carries this season.
The Patriots (4-3) enter the matchup coming off a 30-24 loss to the Chicago Bears on Thursday Night Football in Week 7. Brown contributed three receptions for 88 yards in that game, while Henderson managed just nine yards on three carries. The Dolphins (1-6), who earned their first win of the season last week against the New York Jets, will look to capitalize on New England’s depleted lineup.
Brown’s latest setback follows an ankle injury sustained during a Week 1 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. He returned after a four-game absence but has now missed multiple practices this week. Vrabel stated that Brown was unable to finish practice on Wednesday, prompting further evaluation. Henderson, who had limited production in Week 7, was held to nine yards on three attempts.
The Patriots’ injury woes extend beyond Brown and Henderson, with offensive tackle Marcus Bryant also ruled out. Bryant’s absence adds to the challenges facing New England’s offensive line as they prepare to face a Dolphins defense that ranks among the league’s top units in sacks and takeaways. The team’s ability to adapt without key contributors will be tested in what is expected to be a competitive divisional matchup.