Van Noy (calf) downgraded to out for Steelers game; Patriots' LB depth will be tested again

The Patriots announced Saturday night that linebacker Kyle Van Noy (calf) and special teamer Brandon King (hamstring) have been downgraded to out for Sunday’s game against the Steelers. What does that mean for the rest of the roster?


The bigger loss is Van Noy, as the linebacker has become the Patriots best option when it comes to working in pass coverage. His absence was palpable last week against the Dolphins when Miami running back Kenyan Drake was able to get matched up on linebacker Elandon Roberts on multiple occasions in the passing game, and the Dolphins were able to take advantage.

Without Van Noy, New England will likely have to rely on the remaining linebackers, including Roberts, Trevor Reilly and Marquis Flowers, as well as safeties Pat Chung and Jordan Richards, to work in coverage against the like of Le’Veon Bell and Jesse James.

Kong is a core special teamer, which means there will be more on the plate of similar special teamers like Matthew Slater come Sunday afternoon.

King and Van Noy join defensive lineman Alan Branch as inactives. The team has to announce four more 90 minutes before kickoff on Sunday.