FOXBORO — The Patriots will be down a veteran defender Sunday against the Bengals.
Linebacker Jahlani Tavai, who didn’t practice Friday, won’t play Sunday due to personal reasons. Tavai was limited in Wednesday’s practice due to personal reasons but was a full participant Thursday.
Head coach Mike Vrabel said Friday that he wouldn’t give anymore information on the matter.
Tavai has started four games this season, including the Patriots’ last three contests.
Christian Elliss, who has started seven games this season next to fellow linebacker Robert Spillane, doesn’t have an injury designation after missing the Patriots’ last two games with a hip injury and appears primed to return. The Patriots also have Jack Gibbens and Marte Mapu to provide depth at linebacker.
The team also could elevate Otis Reese, who was recently signed to the practice squad, to help out on special teams.
Tavai is in his fifth season with the Patriots. He began the season on injured reserve, nursing a calf injury. He has 19 tackles, including one tackle for loss, in seven games this season.
