Patriots’ Mike Vrabel Reveals Concern Ahead Of Jaguars Matchup

The New England Patriots left Sunday's 20-3 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers feeling much better about their record and much worse about the condition of their roster. New England lost several players to injuries during the game, including safeties Craig Woodson and Dell Pettus . With the Patriots preparing to visit the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, the potential shortage at safety has become one of Mike Vrabel's most pressing concerns.

"We'll have to see where Craig is and where Dell is," Vrabel told reporters Monday. "Some of the veteran practice squad guys are going to factor in this week."

That could create an immediate opportunity for veteran Mike Brown or second-year safety Elliott Davison. Both are on the practice squad, and Brown has the added benefit of familiarity with Vrabel from their time together with the Tennessee Titans . The Patriots also may need more from Jaylen Reed , whom they acquired in an August trade. Reed played 28 defensive snaps against Pittsburgh after the injuries forced New England to adjust.

"I think he's been ready," Vrabel said of Reed. "He's tried to learn multiple positions."

That versatility suddenly matters quite a bit.

Woodson injured his shoulder during the third quarter and was later seen with his arm in a sling. Pettus departed with an ankle injury after getting hurt during a second-quarter punt.

Their uncertain availability comes at a difficult time. Jacksonville quarterback Trevor Lawrence has the talent to attack the middle of the field, and the Jaguars have multiple pass catchers capable of stressing a secondary.

New England's defense was the biggest reason it earned its first victory of the season. The Patriots held Pittsburgh to 235 total yards, limited the Steelers to a 2-for-12 performance on third down and did not surrender a touchdown. Christian Barmore forced an Aaron Rodgers fumble that Elijah Ponder returned 19 yards for a touchdown. The Patriots also intercepted Rodgers once and consistently prevented Pittsburgh from creating explosive plays.

Maintaining that standard in Jacksonville could require contributions from players who were not expecting prominent defensive roles this early in the season. The Patriots have Kevin Byard III available as the veteran leader of the group, but the situation around him could change considerably depending on the week's injury reports.

Vrabel did not offer firm timelines for Woodson or Pettus. His comments, however, made it clear that New England is already preparing alternatives. The Patriots proved against Pittsburgh that their defense can carry them through an uneven offensive performance. Sunday's trip to Jacksonville may reveal just how deep that defense truly is.