Patriots prepare for possible absences of safeties Woodson and Pettus
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 2:01 AM
Last updated Sep 22, 2026

The New England Patriots are assessing their safety depth after injuries to Craig Woodson and Dell Pettus during Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Coach Mike Vrabel noted the potential call-up of practice squad safeties Mike Brown and Elliott Davison, depending on the players' recovery. Woodson is dealing with a shoulder injury while Pettus has an ankle issue, with their return timelines still uncertain. Vrabel emphasized the balance between developing younger players and utilizing veterans ready for action. The team will evaluate player readiness throughout the week in practice.
- •Craig Woodson and Dell Pettus sustained injuries in Week 2.
- •Mike Vrabel mentioned two practice squad safeties for potential call-up.
- •Woodson has a shoulder injury; Pettus is dealing with an ankle issue.
- •Patriots have not provided a return timetable for either player.
- •Team will evaluate player readiness in practice this week.
- 2:01 AMYahoo Sports — Mike Vrabel pinpoints direction if starting DB misses time with injury
"The Patriots could have to turn to the practice squad for help if safety Craig Woodson misses time with an injury.
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