The Patriots are gearing up for their next game against the Jaguars, and injuries? Yeah, they’re a real headache. Fans are hanging on for some last-minute updates too. So, who’s in, who’s out? Buckle up, folks! It’s gonna get real.

First up, Jerod Mayo gave us the scoop on Rhamondre Stevenson and Drake Maye. For Stevenson, Mayo kept things vague but hopeful. “We’ll see today. He is getting close. He’ll probably be a game-time decision.” Not exactly what you want to hear if you’re hoping for a clear answer. Stevenson’s been out since that foot injury in Week 5, and his absence last week definitely hurt. But hey, the upside? It’s not a long-term thing. Stevenson dodged IR, so the team’s crossing their fingers that he’ll be back soon.

On the flip side, Drake Maye looks good to go. Mayo confirmed it: “He looks good, he’s been out there at practice, and taken the majority of reps.” Maye’s coming off his first NFL start, where he dropped 265 passing yards and 3 touchdowns. Not too shabby for the new kid. Offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt chimed in too, saying, “I’m not concerned.” Sounds like Maye’s knee is holding up just fine, so he’ll be out there slinging passes again.

Now, if Stevenson sits out, it’d be a huge blow to the Patriots’ run game. After all, he’s racked up 356 yards, with 3 TDs averaging 4.6 per carry so far. That’s not the kind of stat you can simply replace. With back-to-back missed practices, the signs aren’t looking great for him playing this weekend.

Patriots’ depth chart and game strategy

What if Stevenson can’t go? Antonio Gibson and JaMycal Hasty will have to man up. Gibson had 13 carries and four catches last week but didn’t exactly light it up with only 43 combined yards. Still, he’s more of a pass-catcher. Hasty’s the backup plan as well. And they might even call up Terrell Jennings or Kevin Harris from the practice squad if needed. But yeah, Gibson’s going to get the bulk of the work. For better or worse!

For Drake Maye? The Patriots will have to ride his arm if the ground game fluctuates. Van Pelt’s been hyping him up, though. “Completely different… He can get in there and make the calls he needs to make.” Maye’s already showing he can adapt on the fly. Like that TD pass during a blitz in practice! If he keeps that up, the Patriots may be able to keep things moving, even without Stevenson.

However, the Jaguars’ defense is no joke. When it comes to stopping the run, it could be a tough game if Stevenson’s sidelined. But with Maye growing into his role and Gibson stepping up, there’s still some hope that the offense might be safe.

In the end, it all depends upon Stevenson’s appearance. If he’s out, it’ll be up to Maye and Gibson to make magic happen. Either way, this one’s going to be a touch one for New England!