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Under-the-radar defender needs to step up to give Patriots a real chance in Week 4

The Patriots will desperately need this defensive back to step up with Christian Gonzalez out.

Published: Sunday, 4 October 2026 at 1:00 PM
Under-the-radar defender needs to step up to give Patriots a real chance in Week 4
Key Things to Know
  • Graham Wilker argues defensive back Charles Woods must step up against Buffalo with Christian Gonzalez sidelined.
  • The New England Patriots will also be without defensive tackle Christian Barmore for the Week 4 contest.
  • Carlton Davis is expected to cover D.J. Moore, while Marcus Jones will likely defend Khalil Shakir.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Musket Fire's Graham Wilker argues that defensive back Charles Woods must step up for the New England Patriots in Week 4 against the Buffalo Bills. With top cornerback Christian Gonzalez and defensive tackle Christian Barmore ruled out, Wilker highlights Woods as a critical depth piece required to contain Buffalo's passing attack alongside Carlton Davis and Marcus Jones.

Wilker notes that Woods will likely face receivers such as Joshua Palmer, Keon Coleman, and Skyler Bell to prevent secondary options from deciding the matchup. Meanwhile, the Patriots enter the contest at 1-2, having struggled offensively under quarterback Drake Maye, who has thrown six interceptions and just one touchdown through three games.

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