The New England Patriots have officially ruled out Patrick Chung and Damien Harris for Sunday’s Week 11 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. According to New England’s injury report, Chung is battling through heel and chest issues while rookie Damien Harris suffered a hamstring injury.
DB Patrick Chung & RB Damien Harris have been downgraded to out for #NEvsPHI.
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) November 16, 2019
Injury Update: Patrick Chung, Damien Harris Out For New England Patriots
Patrick Chung’s absence is going to hurt a New England defense going up against a great tight end duo in Dallas Goedert and Zach Ertz. Despite suffering a serious injury in Super Bowl LIII, Chung returned to the field and has played at his usual high level. Through the first nine games of the season, the former second-round pick recorded 22 tackles and one tackle-for-loss while breaking up two passes for the reigning Super Bowl champions. Pro Football Focus currently gives Chung a solid 61.1 grade for the season.
Harris, meanwhile, probably wouldn’t have seen much action even if he were healthy. 2019’s third-round pick currently sits behind Sony Michel, James White, Rex Burkhead, and Brandon Bolden on the depth chart and has only appeared in two games. During his limited time on the field, the rookie has recorded four carries for 12 yards.
With Chung out of the picture, look for Duron Harmon to see a larger role on defense. While Chung spends most of his time in the box, Harmon is more of a free safety who excels at taking away the deep part of the field. Look for Harmon to continue to serve in that role while Devin McCourty spends more time near the line of scrimmage. Additionally, the Patriots could try to use rookie second-round pick Joejuan Williams and his large frame to cover Philadelphia’s tight end duo of Ertz and Goedert.
The New England Patriots will face off against the Philadelphia Eagles in Philadelphia at 4:25 PM, eastern time.
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