The Patriots' lineup for Sunday's game against the Saints in New Orleans is shaping up with the official activation of CB Christian Gonzalez and DT Milton Williams, despite initial injury concerns. This positive development comes as a relief after a challenging start to the season, with Gonzalez's hamstring injury and Williams' illness causing early setbacks. The team's inactives include LB Anfernee Jennings, S Jaylinn Hawkins, DE Keion White, G Caedan Wallace, DT Eric Gregory, and QB Tommy DeVito, serving as the emergency third quarterback. Cornerbacks coach Justin Hamilton provides insight into Gonzalez's practice participation, emphasizing a maintenance plan to keep the star cornerback healthy. The Patriots' strategy involves dynamic stretching and special teams jog-throughs, with Gonzalez and Carlton Davis catching passes off the jugs machine. The focus is on managing Gonzalez's injury and his potential impact against WR Chris Olave, who has been a target for QB Spencer Rattler. DT Milton Williams' illness is also a concern, but the team's depth at edge defender is tested with injuries to Jennings and White, and the return of K'Lavon Chaisson from a knee injury. The Pats also elevate DE Truman Jones and LB Jahlani Tavai, adding versatility to their edge rotation. The secondary is further bolstered by the return of Kyle Dugger, who will take on a larger role alongside Craig Woodson. Offensively, the activation of undrafted rookie receiver Efton Chism III is notable, with potential contributions in kickoff returns. The team's kickoff return unit faces challenges with the absence of Antonio Gibson and the risk of Rhamondre Stevenson's involvement. The Patriots' running back trio of Terrell Jennings, TreVeyon Henderson, and Stevenson provides depth, with Jennings elevated for the game in New Orleans. The team's success in Buffalo has brought attention, and the challenge of avoiding a letdown in New Orleans is a key focus. The game against the Saints kicks off at 1 p.m. ET, with the Patriots aiming to maintain their winning momentum.
