Full Breakdown
Patriots’ Offensive Line Shaken by Injuries Ahead of Week 2 Showdown with Steelers
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Setback: Loss of Wide Receiver and Guard
The New England Patriots entered Week 2 without two of their primary offensive weapons. Wide receiver A.J. Brown was placed on injured reserve after a high-ankle sprain suffered in the season opener, removing the team’s top deep-threat. One week later, starting guard Mike Onwenu left the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers with a serious leg injury that appeared to be a broken ankle.
Background: Week 1 Loss and Injury Timeline
New England’s season began with a 13-10 defeat on the road to the Seattle Seahawks. The loss of Brown during that game forced the Patriots to rely on secondary receivers such as Romeo Doubs, while quarterback Drake Maye threw three interceptions. The offense stalled after Brown’s exit, and the team’s overall production faltered. The following Sunday, Onwenu was hit from behind by Steelers pass-rusher T.J. Watt, and his right ankle was seen pointing outward, suggesting a fracture or dislocation.
Data & Statistics
- Mike Onwenu started 91 games over seven seasons with New England, anchoring the right side of the line.
- Backup right guard Greg Van Roten has logged 40 offensive snaps this season, allowing two pressures, two hurries and no sacks, according to Pro Football Focus.
- The Patriots’ defense held Seattle to 13 points in Week 1 despite the offense’s struggles, but the offensive line’s health now appears to be a decisive factor against Pittsburgh’s aggressive front seven.
Official Statements & Responses
Sports-medicine analysts on the Fox Sports Radio network and the Fantasy Points injury platform evaluated Onwenu’s condition. Both experts indicated that the injury could be a fracture or dislocation of the right ankle and warned that it may end his season, potentially requiring surgery. The Patriots have not released an official team statement regarding the severity of the injury.
Verbatim Quotes
What’s Next
With Onwenu sidelined, the Patriots will start Greg Van Roten at right guard for the upcoming home game against the Steelers. The team must also adjust its passing attack without Brown, likely increasing reliance on Maye’s mobility and the remaining receiver corps. Pittsburgh enters the contest as a 5.5-point favorite, but the Patriots hope that a stabilized offensive line and a more disciplined offense can keep the game within reach.
