Reinforcements are coming for Patriots potentially ahead of Week 4 game

The last two games for New England have not gone as well as their shocking win against the Bengals in the season opener, and it doesn't appear that will change any time soon since their next opponent is the San Francisco 49ers.

The reigning NFC West champions have had a less-than-ideal start to their season, losing back-to-back games to head into their Week 4 matchup against the Patriots with a 1-2 record.

Despite the significant injuries they're currently dealing with, especially on offense, there's plenty of reason to believe the Niners will use the Patriots as a "get right" game, which is a terrible spot for New England to be in. As one of the few teams considered to be in their championship window, starting the year with an unfavorable record doesn't set them up for success as the year progresses.

They have been a constant in the NFC playoff picture since Brock Purdy's breakout rookie year. Due to injuries, Purdy unexpectedly replaced Jimmy Garoppolo, who had replaced starter Trey Lance. The 49ers have since appeared in the NFC Championship game and the Super Bowl, crowning them a perennial contender, which isn't expected to change soon.

That doesn't bode well for the Patriots' chances on Sunday afternoon, but there might be some good news regarding their injured players. One key player returned to practice this week after being held out since the preseason.

The Patriots look to be getting back a key piece to their offense as soon as this week

The Patriots offensive line has been mostly a liability to start the season, allowing the second-highest pressure rate in the league through the first three games. It has made any offensive success nearly impossible, leading to demands that Jacoby Brissett be benched and calls for free agents to be signed to boost the roster.

While either scenario is still possible, guard Sidy Sow's return to practice this week is perfect timing for the team, especially after their lackluster performance against the Jets last Thursday night.

The second-year lineman has been dealing with an ankle injury that has kept him off the field for several weeks. The group's performance in his absence has proven how important he has become in such a short period of time.

It's not clear when Sow will be back on the field for game day, but Week 4 is certainly in the cards.

Unfortunately, because he's missed so much practice over the past month, it's possible it won't be that soon. However, the fact he is back now is still a good sign and should be a significant help to the offensive line as the season continues.

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