Report: Patriots Ruled Out Seven For Season Opener Vs. Steelers

The New England Patriots will confront the Pittsburgh Steelers in their season opener. The team has ruled out seven players, including linebacker Kyle Van Noy.

Cornerback Joejuan Williams, safety Obi Melifonwu, wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, running back Damien Harris, offensive tackle Korey Cunningham and defensive lineman Byron Coward are also on this list.

The Patriots cut Thomas just to re-sign him over the weekend. Having him on the roster means a lot for the team.

“I think it’s awesome having a guy like Demaryius in there,” Patriots wideout Julian Edelman said after Friday’s practice.

“He’s a veteran-type guy. He’s made a lot of big plays in this league. He’s had a lot of production in this league. He’s played in a lot of big games. Anytime you have someone like that in your room it’s awesome. The younger guys get to see how he prepares and how a professional is supposed to look.”

The team has one of the strongest receiver unit for this season. Adding Antonio Brown was a smart move, and he sure adds more depth.

“The Patriots also were left with just Ben Watson (suspended for the first four games of the regular season), Lance Kendricks, Eric Saubert and Ryan Izzo at tight end with Stephen Anderson and Matt LaCosse out with injuries.

“There’s little certainty for the Patriots at wide receiver and tight end right now. Players like Meyers, Berrios, Harris, Harry, LaCosse and Izzo have shown promise, but there are little guarantees. And the longer those players are out with injuries, the less time they’ll have learning the playbook and getting chemistry with quarterback Tom Brady.”

Mike Tomlin group is really productive, and they have a strong and healthy defensive line. The same applies to the Patriots defensive unit. Head coach Bill Belichick is here to make things work for the unit, and New England has the deepest linebacker group since Willie McGinest walked across the field.

This will be an interesting game to watch, and seeing the Patriots confront their rivals gives us chills. How will Brady and his teammates handle the pressure? Let’s wait and find out.