Without Douglas, who was the Patriots’ No. 1 wide receiver recently, JuJu Smith-Schuster will likely move into the top spot on the depth chart. Joining him will be primary outside receiver DeVante Parker,

Malik Cunningham was elevated from the practice squad on Saturday and he is active along with Zappe and Mac Jones, which means that the Patriots are not designating Jones as an emergency third quarterback on Sunday.

Mac Jones' demotion was likely confirmed on Saturday with the New England Patriots officially elevating backup quarterback Malik Cunningham to the main roster. Cunningham was reportedly getting reps at quarterback at practice this week behind Bailey Zappe,

The Patriots elevated the rookie quarterback/wide receiver from the practice squad Saturday in advance of Sunday’s game against the Chargers.

The Patriots haven't officially announced their quarterback plans for Sunday's game against the Chargers, but observations from this week's practice and a roster move on Saturday are pointing toward a change.

It’s whenever my number’s called,” Cunningham said this week, “just be ready to play.” When healthy, former Alabama All-American Mac Jones has started at quarterback in every New England game since he joined the team as the 15th selection in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Patriots fans itching to see how undrafted rookie Malik Cunningham can boost the team’s struggling offense will get their wish Sunday. The Patriots elevated Cunningham from the practice squad to the gameday roster on Saturday afternoon.