Mike Vrabel gives first update on injured Patriots starter Mike Onwenu - Patriots Wire

New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel expects Mike Onwenu to miss time due to the ankle injury that he sustained in the team’s 20-3 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2.

Speaking to reporters at a press conference on Monday, Vrabel stated that Onwenu is not expected to be available in the short term due to the injury, per Patriots Wire’s Sophie Weller.

"I don’t think he’ll be available here in the short term," Vrabel said. "So, I wouldn’t anticipate him being out there here in the next few weeks. If that changes and it ends up being longer than that, then we will let you guys know."

The Patriots are preparing to move forward without one of their starting offensive linemen for the foreseeable future.

Onwenu did not return to the game after hurting his ankle during Sunday’s victory over the Steelers. The injury created a setback for New England, as the team will now need to reshuffle the deck at the right guard position ahead of their Week 3 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Patriots turned to reserve lineman Greg Van Roten against the Steelers after Onwenu’s departure. Vrabel did not offer a definitive long-term timetable for the star right guard.

A prolonged absence will hurt New England. Onwenu has been a reliable part of the team’s offensive line, bringing experience and physicality to the right side of the line while helping to protect quarterback Drake Maye and support the running game.

For now, the Patriots will evaluate replacement options as Onwenu begins his recovery.

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