The Denver Broncos received a notable boost on Friday ahead of Sunday’s AFC Championship Game, as the New England Patriots officially ruled out their most productive pass rusher.
As Sports Illustrated noted, Patriots outside linebacker Harold Landry will not play against Denver due to a knee injury.
Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed the decision on Friday:
“It’s unfortunate,” Vrabel said at his press conference. “Harold’s been dealing with it, but it got to the point where he just couldn’t go.”
Landry’s loss looms large for New England as it prepares to face a Broncos offense with Jarrett Stidham under center.
It’s an especially massive loss for the Patriots as Landry led the team in sacks this year with 8.5.
Denver will look to exploit this absence, giving the Broncos a clear advantage at the line of scrimmage on offense.
AFC Championship Injury Report
Along with Landry being ruled out, New England enters Sunday with several key contributors listed as questionable.
Wide receiver Mack Hollins (abdomen), cornerback Carlton Davis III (concussion), and linebacker Marte Mapu (hip) all carry that designation.
There is optimism Hollins could return from injured reserve but the final answer will come during the designation period on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Davis was seen practicing late in the week without a no-contact jersey.
With Landry sidelined, New England is expected to rely more heavily on Anfernee Jennings, Elijah Ponder, and Bradyn Swinson off the edge, alongside K’Lavon Chaisson.
On the other hand, Denver’s injury report continues to trend in a positive direction.
Running back J.K. Dobbins (foot), wide receiver Troy Franklin (hamstring), and rookie wideout Pat Bryant (concussion) have all practiced this week.
Dobbins and Franklin were limited participants on Thursday, while Bryant progressed to full participation.
There is real optimism that all three could be available Sunday.
Their potential availability is crucial for a Broncos offense without their franchise quarterback.
Why Harold Landry’s Absence Matters
Landry’s absence removes New England’s most consistent source of pressure.
During the regular season, Landry led the Patriots with 8.5 sacks.
He added 27 solo tackles and a forced fumble while serving as the focal point of the defense.
Just as important, New England will be without one of its defensive captains and most vocal leaders.
Vrabel emphasized earlier this week that Landry is “a tone-setter” for the unit, making his loss especially significant against a Denver offensive line that has protected well all season.
Landry’s presence has been central to communication and energy up front, something that’s difficult to replace in a game of this magnitude.
While Landry has officially been ruled out, all other active and inactive designations will be finalized 90 minutes before kickoff.
Patriots Rule Out 8.5-Sack Pass Rusher Just Before AFC Title Game vs. Broncos