Raiders should have Brown, Kwiatkoski back for Buffalo game — in theory
The Raiders were without right tackle Trent Brown and middle linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski Sunday against the New England Patriots, as both men were among the seven players deesignated as inactive.
It’s the second missed game for both, who were injured in a Week 1 win over the Carolina Panthers.
Given the rules for injured reserve in the wake of COVID-19, the Raiders gambled both men would be back for next week’s game at Allegiant Stadium against the Buffalo Bills.
Players who go on injured reserve can be brought back after three weeks. If Brown and Kwiatkoski still can’t play next week, it means the Raiders played three games down two roster spots when it wasn’t necessary.
Rookie wide receiver Henry Ruggs III was also ruled out out after a hamstring injury was added to to his knee issue during the week. Ruggs was not placed on I.R., so like Brown and Kwiatkoski, it would appear he’s expected back inside of three weeks.
With Ruggs out, Rico Gafford is active for the first time at wide receiver. Gafford is the only receiver on the roster with speed similar to Ruggs and owns a 49-yard touchdown among his two NFL receptions.
Other players who were ruled inactive for the Raiders Sunday were swing tackle Sam Young, cornerback Amik Robertson, cornerback Madre Harper and defensive end Kendal Vickers.
With Young out, it means Denzelle Good is expected to play again at right tackle in Brown’s spot, with rookie John Simpson a potential starter at left guard in place of Richie Incognito.
Vickers had been active and seen limited playing time the first two weeks. He sits this week as defensive tackle Daniel Ross is active for the first time.