The New England Patriots placed guard Greg Van Roten on injured reserve on Tuesday, sidelining him for a minimum of four games. Van Roten sustained a thigh injury during the first half of Sunday’s lopsided loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. His absence comes amid broader challenges on the Patriots’ offensive line, especially at right guard.

Van Roten had been filling in for starter Mike Onwenu, who is already out due to a broken ankle suffered in Week 2. With both primary guards sidelined, the Patriots are expected to start their third-string right guard in Sunday’s game against the undefeated Buffalo Bills.

Backup lineman Walter Rouse, acquired from another team in a trade on August 30, saw limited action in the Jaguars game but struggled in his performance. The Patriots could also turn to Ben Brown, who has served as the top interior backup. However, Brown has been hampered by an ankle injury sustained in the preseason opener, and using him at guard could deplete depth at the center position.

To address potential gaps, the team might look to promote an offensive lineman from the practice squad to the active 53-man roster. Among the candidates, Jake Kubas has started cross-training at center since last season, while Xavier Newman-Johnson brings some versatility and prior experience, including a brief period playing for Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel during his tenure with the Tennessee Titans.

Van Roten’s placement on injured reserve also opens a roster spot for New England, allowing the team some flexibility as it navigates its current injury situation along the offensive line. The Patriots continue to face significant depth challenges ahead of their next matchup as they seek to stabilize this critical unit.