The New England Patriots are running dangerously low on tight ends as they prepare for their first preseason game of the 2014 season.
Tight end D.J. Williams did not practice for the Patriots on Wednesday after injuring his ankle during Tuesday’s joint practice with the Washington Redskins. Williams was present for practice, according to multiple reports from Richmond, Va., but he was not in uniform and had a sleeve on his right leg.
Williams’ injury, which likely will keep him out of Thursday’s game against the Redskins, leaves rookies Justin Jones and Asa Watson as the team’s lone tight ends. Fullback James Develin also could see time at tight end on Thursday. Starter Rob Gronkowski still is recovering from surgery to repair a torn ACL, and Michael Hoomanawanui is dealing with an unknown injury.
Defensive tackle Sealver Siliga didn’t take the practice field on Wednesday, according to multiple reports. He injured his left hand on Tuesday and returned to the field with a hard cast.
