Key Highlights
- Kayshon Boutte, Harold Landry III, and Robert Spillane are all active for the Patriots Wild Card playoff matchup against the Chargers.
- The Patriots’ inactives include NT Khyiris Tonga (foot), G Caedan Wallace, OLB Bradyn Swinson, TE C.J. Dippre, OT Marcus Bryant, WR Jeremiah Webb, and QB Tommy DeVito.
- Kayshon Boutte has become one of the league’s most efficient deep threats, catching seven of his 11 deep targets this season with +1.66 expected points on his deep pass attempts (min. 10 routes).
- Harold Landry III and Robert Spillane return from injury to bolster the Patriots’ defensive lineup.
The Inactives Report: A Vital Update for the Patriots Wild Card Game
The New England Patriots are gearing up for their upcoming Wild Card playoff matchup against the Chargers, with several key players set to return from injury. According to an inactives report released on January 11, 2026, at 06:45 PM by Evan Lazar, staff writer for Foxborough, MA, the Patriots will have a strong lineup ready for Sunday night’s game.
Returnees from Injuries
The most significant news is the return of OLB Harold Landry III (knee) and LB Robert Spillane (ankle). These two players carried questionable designations leading into the game, but their official activation is a huge boost for the Patriots defense. Additionally, WR Kayshon Boutte (hamstring), who was also questionable, has made it onto the active list.
Landry III and Spillane have been key contributors in previous games.
Landry was ranked 12th in Pro Football grade among linebackers, while Spillane led the team with 18 run stops on the season. Their return should significantly improve the Patriots’ defensive performance, particularly in their front seven.
Active Players and Their Roles
The active roster includes Stefon Diggs, Kyle Williams, DeMario Douglas, Efton Chism III, and Kayshon Boutte on the wide receiver position. Boutte has shown his efficiency this season by catching seven of his 11 deep targets, adding +1.66 expected points on his deep pass attempts (min. 10 routes). The Patriots will leverage his speed against LA’s zone coverage to create downfield opportunities.
On the offensive line, rookie Jared Wilson is set to start at left guard after missing the last two games due to a concussion. This gives the Patriots a solid starting lineup with Will Campbell and Wilson as key players in the future of the offensive line.
Inactives and Their Impact
The Patriots’ inactives list includes NT Khyiris Tonga (foot), G Caedan Wallace, OLB Bradyn Swinson, TE C.J. Dippre, OT Marcus Bryant, WR Jeremiah Webb, and QB Tommy DeVito as the emergency third quarterback. The absence of these players could pose challenges for the Patriots, particularly in their run defense.
Since New England has been relying on six offensive linemen in jumbo packages recently, the return of Munford Jr. is crucial.
In the last month, the Patriots have averaged 8.3 yards per play and generated 11 explosive plays with Munford as the extra lineman. His availability suggests he will continue in his role for Sunday’s game.
Looking Ahead to the Wild Card Game
The Patriots’ first home playoff game in six seasons is set for Gillette Stadium at 8:15 p.m. ET on Sunday night. After clinching a playoff berth, New England opted to rest key players in their final two regular-season games to ensure they are fresh for the playoffs.
With the return of Landry III and Spillane, the Patriots should see improved defensive performance, especially against Los Angeles’ potent offense.
The Chargers will officially have Omarion Hampton active after listing him as questionable with an ankle injury. However, his effectiveness remains uncertain.
The stage is set for a competitive Wild Card matchup between two teams eager to make their mark in the playoffs. Fans can expect high stakes and intense action as both sides aim to secure a spot in the divisional round.
