The Patriots listed quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo as doubtful on their final injury report ahead of Thursday’s game vs. the Texans.
That means rookie Jacoby Brissett is likely the team’s starter -- and only healthy quarterback -- against the Texans. Wide receiver Julian Edelman, a college quarterback, is probably the team’s emergency option.
The Patriots listed Garoppolo as a limited participant Wednesday for the second straight day. He suffered a shoulder injury that forced him out of last week’s win over the Dolphins.
Gronkowski, who’s missed the team’s first two games with a hamstring injury, is one of six players the Patriots listed as questionable. Gronkowski was a limited practice participant all week.
The other Patriots listed as questionable linebacker Dont’a Hightower (knee), cornerback Eric Rowe (ankle), guard Jonathan Cooper (foot), linebacker Jonathan Freeny (shoulder) and defensive lineman Trey Flowers (shoulder).
The Texans previously announced wide receiver Braxton Miller, linebacker Brian Cushing and offensive tackle Duane Brown would miss the game.