DENVER — The New England Patriots could be without their starting strong safety Sunday night against the Denver Broncos.
Patrick Chung was added to the injury report Sunday with a foot ailment, the team announced. Chung is questionable to play Sunday night. It’s unclear when the injury occurred, since the Patriots only held a walk-through Saturday.
Chung has had a fantastic season, playing near the line of scrimmage, where he can defend the run and cover tight ends and slot receivers. He’s allowed just 20 receptions on 38 targets for 208 yards with one touchdown and six pass breakups.
If Chung can’t play, safeties Duron Harmon and Tavon Wilson likely will see increased reps in the defense next to starting free safety Devin McCourty. Harmon has had a breakout season while playing free safety in nickel and dime packages, allowing McCourty to cover one-on-one. Wilson worked in man coverage last week against the Buffalo Bills, covering receivers.
Chung likely was going to be matched up with Broncos tight ends Owen Daniels, Vernon Davis and Virgil Green. Wilson and McCourty likely will take over those duties.
The Patriots already are shallow at defensive back. Cornerback Justin Coleman was ruled out Friday with a hand injury. Chung has played in a hyrbid-cornerback role this season.
Coleman, wide receivers Danny Amendola (knee) and Julian Edelman (foot), linebacker Jamie Collins (illness) and tight end Michael Williams (knee) have been ruled out against the Broncos. The Patriots must declare two more players inactive at 7 p.m. ET.
Thumbnail photo via Kevin Hoffman/USA TODAY Sports Images
