The New England Patriots are set to kick off their 2021 season against the Miami Dolphins less than 90 minutes from now. As all eyes will be on rookie quarterback Mac Jones as he makes his NFL debut, let’s first take a look at which players on both sides have been declared inactive for Week 1:
Patriots inactives
LB Ronnie Perkins
RB J.J. Taylor
TE Devin Asiasi
T Yodny Cajuste
CB Shaun Wade
K Quinn Nordin
Sticking out on the Patriots’ inactive list is who is not listed. After being a limited participant in practice throughout the week, both cornerback Jalen Mills and wide receiver Nelson Agholor will suit up for their New England debut Sunday. Both players were dealing with ankle injuries and appeared to be trending in the right direction despite the questionable tag, especially after the team did not elevate any wide receivers or cornerbacks to their roster on Saturday.
Despite making the original 53-man roster over veteran Nick Folk, it will be Folk — not Quinn Nordin — handling the kicking duties against Miami. Folk and quarterback Brian Hoyer were both elevated from the practice squad.
Rookies Ronnie Perkins and Shaun Wade will put their NFL debuts on hold. Wade’s inactive label is a strong sign that Mills is feeling near 100 percent. One rookie who should make his NFL debut is running back Rhamondre Stevenson as J.J. Taylor starts the year inactive.
Devin Asiasi’s absence indicates there are no concerns with starting tight ends Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith.
Dolphins inactives
CB Trill Williams
CB Noah Igbinoghene
WR Preston Williams
DB Elijah Campbell
T Greg Little
After spending the entire week on the Covid-19 reserve list, Miami’s left tackle Austin Jackson is active. His backup, Greg Little, however, is out. Dolphins wide receiver Preston Williams was listed as questionable with a foot injury, but will miss the Week 1 matchup.