The Patriots’ defensive depth will be tested in Thursday night’s game against the Jets.

Linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley is <a href="https://www.bostonherald.com/2024/09/16/patriots-lose-defensive-captain-jawhaun-bentley-for-season-with-injury/">expected to miss the season</a> after being diagnosed with a torn pectoral. He hasn’t been placed on injured reserve just yet, but he was <a href="https://www.bostonherald.com/2024/09/19/patriots-make-change-to-cornerback-depth-chart-ahead-of-week-3-jets-matchup/">ruled out</a> for Week 3.

“It’s huge,” head coach Jerod Mayo said Thursday on 98.5 The Sports Hub. “Not only on the field as a communicator, as a captain, but also off the field with these young guys. We do have this next man up mentality.”

Mayo went on to say that linebacker Jahlani Tavai will be the defense’s communicator, wearing the “green dot” helmet with a headset inside. Mayo said that safety Kyle Dugger also can wear the green dot.

Raekwon McMillan is expected to fill in as the Patriots’ No. 2 starting linebacker, sliding in behind Tavai on the linebacker depth chart.

Patriots linebacker Jahlani Tavai will take on a major role replacing Ja’Whaun Bentley.{ai:summary}<p>The New England Patriots face a significant challenge against the Jets as linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley is likely out for the season due to a torn pectoral muscle. Head coach Jerod Mayo highlighted Bentley's leadership role on and off the field.</p><p>In Bentley's absence, Jahlani Tavai will serve as the defensive communicator, while Raekwon McMillan is set to step up as the No. 2 linebacker. The team emphasizes a next-man-up mentality amid these changes. #sports</p>

How Patriots plan to replace injured linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley

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