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Devin McCourty, Chad Ochocinco Won’t Play Against Eagles

The Patriots' defense will be stretched thin for the second week in a row, as cornerback Devin McCourty, safety Patrick Chung, linebacker Brandon Spikes and linebacker Dane Fletcher didn't make the trip to Philadelphia for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

Wide receiver Chad Ochocinco (hamstring) and starting center Dan Connolly (groin) also did not travel to Philly, and they'll each miss their first game of the season. Ochocinco missed his first practice of the season Friday.

Quarterback Ryan Mallett was announced as the final inactive player Sunday. This is the 10th time he's been inactive this season, including the last eight games.

McCourty will miss his second game with a shoulder injury, and Chung is out for the third consecutive week with a foot injury. It's the fourth game Chung has missed this season.

Spikes (knee) is out for the third straight week and the fourth time this season, and Fletcher will miss his fifth game in a row with a thumb injury. Neither player has practiced since suffering their respective injuries.

Chung, who was a game-time decision two weeks ago against the Jets, has been ruled out much earlier in the last two games. Former cornerback Sterling Moore has been starting in Chung's spot alongside James Ihedigbo.

McCourty has been limited in the team's last four practices. Cornerbacks Antwaun Molden (outside) and Phillip Adams (nickel) combined to pick up McCourty's responsibilities last week against the Chiefs.