The Patriots hoped Albert Haynesworth would become a key cog in their defense, but for the second straight week, the big defensive tackle will be out with a back injury. Banged-up cornerbacks Leigh Bodden and Ras-I Dowling have also been downgraded and will miss Sunday's game with the Raiders, as well.
This marks the second straight game that Haynesworth will miss. He played in the Patriots' first two games of the season, but has been battling the back problems ever since. He had practiced in pads as late in the week as Wednesday, but he'll be unable to give it a go, which is a big loss for the Patriots, who will be trying to contain the NFL's leading rusher in Darren McFadden.
With Haynesworth out, the Patriots will likely turn to defensive tackle Gerard Warren, who the team re-signed on Wednesday.
Bodden will be out of Sunday's matchup with a groin injury, while the rookie Dowling is battling a hip issue.
Tight end Aaron Hernandez, offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer and defensive lineman Mike Wright will also miss Sunday's game.
