Patriots Focus on Rookie Development Amidst Injuries

The New England Patriots are grappling with injuries and strategic decisions as they approach their Week 15 game against the Arizona Cardinals. Key players, including wide receiver Javon Baker and offensive tackle Caedan Wallace, are sidelined due to a concussion and an ankle injury respectively, impacting the team's plans to give rookies more playtime. Despite a strong performance in the fourth quarter by rookie quarterback Drake Maye in their recent loss to the Cardinals, the Patriots' offensive struggles continue, particularly with their third-down efficiency. The Patriots' coaching staff, led by Jerod Mayo, is focused on evaluating the roster and young talent, indicating a strategic shift towards developing future potential rather than immediate results. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions are set to face the Buffalo Bills with a nearly full-strength roster, as several key linemen return to action, though the Bills will miss some critical defensive players.