The New England Patriots could be without Romeo Doubs for longer than expected. The WR hurt his shoulder while scoring a 42-yard touchdown against the New York Jets on October 18. Now, with the Pats’ preparing for another tough matchup, Mike Vrabel has a difficult question to answer: when will Doubs be back?
New England placed Doubs on injured reserve on October 19, forcing him to miss at least four games. His return date remains up in the air, and there is a chance he could miss the rest of the 2026 season.
Romeo Doubs Faces An Uncertain Road Back to the Patriots
Sep 7, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs (87) during the game against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Doubs picked a rough time to get hurt. His touchdown against the Jets came during a 26-19 Patriots win, but he couldn't finish the game after injuring his shoulder on the scoring play.
The receiver had given Drake Maye another reliable option in the passing game. Through six games, Doubs recorded 14 catches for 261 yards and three touchdowns. He also tied DeMario Douglas for the team lead in touchdown receptions at that point.
Now, the Patriots have to figure out how to keep their offense moving without him. A.J. Brown, Douglas and tight end Hunter Henry will have bigger roles while Doubs works his way back.
There is a possible return window, though. New England has a bye in Week 11, and Doubs could become eligible to return afterward. That would put Week 12 against the Los Angeles Chargers on November 29 as his earliest possible game back. Still, clearing the injured-reserve window doesn't mean he will be ready to play.
Mike Vrabel Has No Firm Timeline For Romeo Doubs' Return
Vrabel addressed the injury while speaking to reporters on October 21. The Patriots coach didn't offer a firm return date, and the possibility of a season-ending injury remains on the table.
That leaves New England waiting for more information on Doubs' recovery. The team signed him to a four-year, $68 million deal in the offseason, so losing him for an extended stretch would leave Maye without a receiver the Patriots brought in to strengthen their passing game.
Maye has shown signs of turning his season around, but the offense now has one less option to work with. Brown's return gives him some help, while Douglas and Henry can take on more of the workload.
For now, there is no confirmed date for Doubs' comeback. He could return after the bye if his recovery goes well, but the Patriots have yet to say when he will be ready. A longer absence remains possible.
Want to bring a Packers star to your next event? Mayfield Sports Marketing can help. This top agency helps with Packers player appearances and player meet-and-greets. They have worked with top star players like Jerry Kramer, Gilbert Brown and LeRoy Butler.
No matter whether you want to book current Green Bay Packers players for corporate events or organise Green Bay Packers charity events, Mayfield Sports is a go-to choice.
