The New England Patriots are banged up ahead of this Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions, but Thursday offered some good news on the injury front.
Quarterback Mac Jones was a limited participant in practice for the second day in a row. Jones still is dealing with the high ankle sprain he suffered in Week 3 and reportedly hopes to play this weekend, but he likely won't be able to do so.
Jonnu Smith also practiced Thursday after being a non-participant Wednesday. The veteran tight end reportedly is "week-to-week" after suffering a low ankle sprain last Sunday, but his return to practice indicates his injury might not be as severe as previously feared.
Brian Hoyer missed his second consecutive practice due to a concussion. If Hoyer can't play Sunday, rookie Bailey Zappe likely will start at quarterback for the Patriots.
DID NOT PARTICIPATE
DL Lawrence Guy - Shoulder
QB Brian Hoyer - Concussion
DL DaMarcus Mitchell - Concussion
LIMITED PARTICIPATION
S Kyle Dugger - Knee
QB Mac Jones - Ankle
LB Raekwon McMillan - Thumb
WR Jakobi Meyers - Knee
CB Jalen Mills - Hamstring
S Adrian Phillips - Ribs
OT Isaiah Wynn - Hip
TE Jonnu Smith - Ankle
The Lions on Thursday had six players listed as non-participants, including running back D'Andre Swift and receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. Star tight end T.J. Hockenson was limited due to a hip injury.
Swift reportedly is unlikely to play in Sunday's matchup at Gillette Stadium.
New England and Detroit will kick off at 1 p.m. ET. The Patriots and Lions both are 1-3 through four weeks.
