Patriots downgrade CB Carlton Davis III to out; elevate P Mitch Wishnowsky for Week 2
Davis will miss his first game as a Patriot with a neck injury; Wishnowsky receives a second standard elevation while Baringer remains on IR and cannot return until Week 5.
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Injury occurrence — Davis briefly exited Week 1 after a tackle and later returned; that episode is linked to his neck injury.
Practice status — Davis missed all three practices this week and was listed questionable before being downgraded to out on Saturday.
Immediate depth impact — New England expects to rely on third-year CB Charles Woods and has rookies Karon Prunty and Channing Canada as options; Kindle Vildor was not elevated from the practice squad.
Elevation — Wishnowsky joins the game-day roster for the second straight week via a standard elevation.
Baringer status — Top punter Bryce Baringer remains on injured reserve and is ineligible to return until at least Week 5.
Roster note — Because this is Wishnowsky's second standard elevation, he has one more available before requiring a full signing to the 53-man roster.
Opponent note — Pittsburgh downgraded/rule out Michael Pittman Jr. (foot) for Week 2, which offsets New England losing a starting corner.
Matchup possibilities — Patriots may use a 'big' nickel package, consider Jaylen Reed as a big nickel, or keep Marcus Jones in slot; heavy personnel matchups with Steelers tight ends remain a focus.