The New England Patriots confirmed shortly before kickoff that rookie defensive tackle Joshua Farmer and running back Terrell Jennings will miss the AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos, despite both progressing through early practice work during the week. Farmer remains sidelined by a hamstring issue, while Jennings is unavailable due to concussion protocol, thinning New England’s depth along the defensive front and in the running back rotation at a critical stage of the postseason. Farmer had been pushing toward his first meaningful action since December, and Jennings’ absence is expected to increase the workload for Rhamondre Stevenson as the Patriots carry a 15–1 surge into the playoffs. Attention now turns to the passing game, where the anticipated return of wide receiver Mack Hollins could provide a timely lift against a Broncos defense that has limited opponents to 18.2 points per game during its recent stretch.
DT Joshua Farmer & RB Terrell Jennings have been downgraded to out for #NEvsDEN. pic.twitter.com/R0epPST9tt
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) January 24, 2026
