The New England Patriots will play their AFC East rival Miami Dolphins without three key players, but quarterback Tom Brady is not one of them. After being limited in Thursday’s practice (Nov. 23) due to an Achilles issue, Brady is expected to start against the Dolphins on Sunday (Nov. 26). Center David Andrews, tackle Marcus Cannon, and wide receiver Chris Hogan will not play against the Dolphins due to illness, ankle, and shoulder issues, respectively. Tight end Martellus Bennett is listed as doubtful due to shoulder and hamstring issues. The Patriots listed as questionable are wide receiver Danny Amendola (knee), defensive tackle Malcom Brown (ankle), safety Patrick Chung (ankle), cornerback Eric Rowe (groin), and wide receiver Matthew Slater (hamstring) after they were limited in practice.

Tight end Rob Gronkowski was also limited in practice but he will suit up Sunday.The Patriots (8-2) will go for their seventh straight win against the reeling Dolphins (4-6), who lost their last four games.

Brady, Gronkowski ready for Dolphins

Brady and Gronkowski both sat out of Wednesday’s practice (Nov. 22) and were limited in Thursday’s training due to Achilles issue and illness, respectively. However, after Friday’s practice (Nov. 24), Brady and Gronkowski both declared themselves ready for action against the Dolphins. When asked about his Achilles issue, Brady said there’s nothing to worry about. ”I feel great. Excited for Sunday. Felt good to get a little extra treatment. Feeling great this time of year,” said Brady, per the team’s official website.

“I’m good. Just a little illness that went by quick. Thankful for that. I’m good to go,” said Gronkowski, who blamed the rigors of travel and high altitude in Mexico City, where they defeated the Oakland Raiders, 33-8. In that win, Brady completed 30-of-37 passes for 339 yards and three touchdowns while Gronkowski caught three passes for 37 yards for the Patriots.

Despite the Dolphins’ struggles, Brady said they cannot take them for granted, saying the Patriots have to stay focused. “All the veteran players who’ve been here have to show a lot of leadership to the younger players, because it does get challenging,” Brady said.

Cutler won’t play due to concussion

The Dolphins, for their part, will play without starting quarterback Jay Cutler, who is still in the concussion protocol.

The Dolphins will instead start Matt Moore under center. In three games this season, Moore tallied 646 passing yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions. Aside from Cutler, guard Jermon Bushrod (foot) and defensive end Williams Hays (back) will not play against the Patriots. Listed as questionable for the Dolphins are linebacker Stephone Anthony (quadriceps), tackle Laremy Tunsil (illness), and safety Maurice Smith (illness).