Patriots Place LG Alijah Vera-Tucker On IR

Vera-Tucker, 27, has struggled with injuries throughout his NFL career. Originally the No. 14 pick in the 2021 draft, he started all but one game for the Jets as a rookie but just 12 over the next two years with IR stays due to triceps and Achilles injuries. He returned in 2024 to start 15 games, re-establishing his value in a contract year and earning him a three-year, $42MM deal from the Patriots in free agency.

However, another torn triceps forced Vera-Tucker onto season-ending IR before Week 1. He finally entered New England’s starting lineup this year and has graded out as an above-average starter, according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required). The details of his injury remain unknown, and the team has not offered a recovery timeline.

The Patriots initially moved Ben Brown from right to left guard after Vera-Tucker went down in Week 6. That brought Walter Rouse into the game at right guard, but a knee injury to Brown shifted him to the left side, too. Matt Pryor then closed out the contest at right guard. Brown was ruled out for Thursday night’s matchup with the Bears, so the Patriots will likely start Rouse and Pryor at guard.

Vera-Tucker’s IR placement could already inspire New England to pursue guard help, and Brown’s injury only heightens their need at the position. The free agent ranks are extremely thin at this point of the season, so the team would likely have to explore the trade market.

The Patriots also made a pair of roster moves in preparation for Thursday Night Football, elevating offensive lineman Xavier Newman-Johnson and linebacker Benton Whitley from the practice squad. Neither has appeared in a game this year.