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Van Roten’s move to injured reserve represents a significant blow to an offensive unit already navigating a series of personnel setbacks. His absence further complicates the protection scheme for quarterback
Impact on the Patriots' Offensive Front
The loss of Van Roten is the latest in a mounting list of health issues for the Patriots, who have now placed 17 players on injured reserve or reached injury settlements this season. This figure has already surpassed the 16 players the team placed on injured reserve throughout the entirety of the 2025 season. The roster has been thinned by injuries to key contributors, including opening-day starter Mike Onwenu, who is sidelined with a broken ankle, as well as wide receiver A.J. Brown, tight end Julian Hill, and punter Bryce Baringer.
The instability on the offensive line was evident during Sunday’s defeat, where Maye faced a 47% pressure rate—the highest he has encountered this season and the fourth-highest of his three-year career. Under pressure, Maye completed 4-of-9 passes with an interception. Statistics indicate that the quarterback has struggled to find rhythm when rushed, completing just 41% of his passes under pressure this season without a touchdown and with three interceptions.
Adjusting the Roster for Buffalo
Head coach Mike Vrabel indicated on Monday that the team was already preparing for the possibility of Van Roten’s absence. Vrabel noted that backup center Ben Brown is expected to take repetitions at the right guard position during practice this week. When Van Roten exited the game on Sunday, third-year veteran Walter Rouse, who joined the team via a trade from the Minnesota Vikings on August 30, stepped into the lineup.
The Patriots, currently holding a 1-2 record, signed Van Roten to a one-year, $3 million contract on August 18 to bolster their veteran presence. The team now faces a critical test as they prepare to travel for a divisional matchup against the 3-0 Buffalo Bills this coming Sunday.
