FOXBORO — Patriots linebacker Jahlani Tavai and defensive tackle Eric Gregory were missing from the team’s final practice before they travel to take on the Bengals this Sunday.
Tavai and Gregory were the only players absent at the start of Friday’s practice.
Tavai was limited in Wednesday’s practice for personal reasons but was a full participant Thursday. Gregory has not been listed on this week’s injury report.
If Gregory, who was claimed off waivers from the Bengals this summer, plays on Sunday, he could take on a bigger role with Milton Williams on injured reserve with an ankle injury. The Patriots also have Christian Barmore, Khyiris Tonga, Cory Durden and rookie Joshua Farmer on their defensive tackle depth chart.
Tavai is a rotational defender who mixes in with Christian Elliss and Jack Gibbens next to Robert Spillane at linebacker. The team also has Marte Mapu at the position.
