Jun 9, 2025; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel leaves the practice fields after minicamp at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

The New England Patriots face off against the Tennessee Titans in an exciting rematch for Mike Vrabel, marking his anticipated return to his former team. Vrabel coached the Titans from 2018 to 2023, leading them to three playoff berths, first place in the AFC, and a Conference Championship. He also earned Coach of the Year honors and finished with a 54-45 regular-season record and went 2-3 in the postseason.

Since no game is a given, the Patriots need to do everything they can to avoid a trap game. That means they must play well on offense, defense, and special teams. On the offensive side, a key receiver may or may not play.

New England Patriots’ No. 1 WR popped up on Wednesday’s injury report

Stefon Diggs popped up on Week 7’s injury report with a chest injury, despite playing 59% of offensive snaps in Week 6, which is around his usual workload. The four-time Pro Bowler was a limited participant on Wednesday and Thursday and upgraded to a full participant on Friday. As a result, the Patriots listed Diggs as questionable in the final injury report.

New England Patriots’ top target set to play

According to Ian Rapoport on Saturday night, the plan was for Stefon Diggs to play against the Tennessee Titans. His presence will provide an immediate spark for the offense and ensure a trap game isn’t going to happen, especially against a defense that has allowed the fifth-fewest passing touchdowns. The Patriots will officially release their inactive players list shortly, and Diggs won’t be on it.

#Patriots WR Stefon Diggs, listed as questionable with a chest injury, is expected to play on Sunday, source said. He was a full participant Friday.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 19, 2025