The Patriots could be short-handed at wide receiver Sunday against the Bills.
Kendrick Bourne is on the COVID list with the potential to still play, but nothing is guaranteed. And then Nelson Agholor missed practice Wednesday after suffering an apparent head injury against the Colts last week.
So, with those players' availability in question, the Patriots may look to the practice squad for reinforcements in Kristian Wilkerson and Tre Nixon.
Speaking via videoconference Wednesday, Bill Belichick had some positive things to say about both players.
"Wilk’s really improved in every area of the game," he said. "First of all, overall, just the maturity and professionalism. Just the way he prepares, trains, takes care of himself, is ready to go every day. He’s very dependable when he walks in the building. You know what you’re going to get from him. As a receiver and a blocker, he’s improved in his route running, his blocking, all things that go into being a receiver, catching the ball. He consistently shows up in practice. A guy we have trouble covering."
The coach also praised Nixon, a rookie, who obviously has less experience than Wilkerson.
"Tre works extremely hard," Belichick said. "I’ve been really impressed with his work ethic. He does everything that we ask him to do and more. He’s improved quite a bit. A young player. Still has a way to go, of course, but he’s working hard and has improved considerably."
Sunday is still aways away, but keep an eye on these two players to be elevated to the game day roster.
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