Week 3 against Jacksonville will present a challenge the 2026 Patriots have yet to see. In the first two weeks, New England’s defense has seen two teams, the Seahawks and Steelers, who have alpha receivers in Jaxon Smith-Njigba and DK Metcalf, respectively. The Jaguars, on the other hand, have multiple great pass catchers and like to spread the ball around.
Through two games, five Jaguars have three or more receptions, headlined by Parker Washington’s 12.
This can raise problems for their opponent’s defense, but this week during his press conference, Christian Gonzalez mentioned how New England‘s secondary is up for the challenge.
“We all know in the back end that whoever’s in front of us you know they’re a top target on that offense. You know they spread the ball around, and as DBs and as corners, we love it. Me, Marcus, and CD, we invite it and we love it,” said Gonzalez.
Carlton Davis III’s Return
While the secondary is eager for the test, winning on Sunday requires key personnel on the field. New England needs Carlton Davis III fully healthy.
After missing last Sunday with a neck injury, he has reportedly returned to practice this week. This is a great sign for the Patriots’ defense, as Davis III is the team’s No. 2 cornerback alongside Gonzalez, and would play a big role in stopping Jacksonville’s potent passing attack.
If Davis can return to a full workload and the secondary can hold up in coverage, the Patriots will have a strong path to slowing down Trevor Lawrence and Jacksonville’s versatile passing attack.
Sunday Outlook
New England’s secondary isn’t backing down from a challenge, but come Sunday they will need to back it up on the field. With five different Jaguars already logging regular targets, the Patriots’ depth will be tested. If the secondary can win its 1-on-1 matchups across the board, and limit Parker Washington and the Jaguars’ other pass catchers, New England will be in a great spot to leave EverBank Stadium with a win.
