The New England Patriots will face the Miami Dolphins on Sunday with a depleted roster, as they have ruled out two key players for the Week 8 matchup. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe and edge rusher Josh Uche will both be sidelined due to ankle and foot injuries respectively.

Lowe sustained an ankle injury during last Sunday's victory over the Buffalo Bills, while Uche has been dealing with a lingering foot issue that caused him to miss the previous game in Week 7. Both players' absence will be felt as they add to an already growing list of inactives.

The Patriots had already ruled out tackle Calvin Anderson, further thinning their offensive line ahead of the Dolphins game. However, starting left tackle Trent Brown, who is dealing with ankle and knee injuries, is expected to play, providing some relief to the weakened unit.

The decision to rule out Uche is particularly notable, as the fourth-year pro is considered one of the more talented players on the Patriots' defense. Despite only recording two sacks in the first six games of the season, Uche's presence and potential have made him a subject of trade rumors leading up to the approaching deadline.

While Lowe has struggled at times this season, his injury is still a cause for concern. As the top backup at both tackle positions, his absence leaves the Patriots with limited options on the offensive line. Unless Conor McDermott is elevated from the practice squad and immediately slotted in as a starter, it is highly likely that Mike Onwenu will start at right tackle for the second consecutive week.

The Patriots will have to find a way to overcome these key injuries as they take on the Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. The game, scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, will test the depth and resilience of the Patriots' roster as they look to secure another victory in their quest for the playoffs.