Raiders may be down 2 on defense Sunday (w/video)

ALAMEDA - Already staggering from back-to-back poor performances, the Oakland Raiders will likely be without two of their starting linebackers Sunday in New England.

Middle linebacker Nick Roach is still recovering from a concussion he suffered during the preseason and only recently returned to practice on a limited basis. He played every defensive snap in 2013 but has yet to be cleared through the NFL’s protocol for concussions and is questionable against the Patriots.

The Raiders are hopeful Roach will be cleared in time to play, though it’s likely to be a game-time decision. The veteran linebacker said he’s feeling better but he and the team continue to take a cautious approach given the nature of his injury.

“He’s still going through the protocol,” Oakland coach Dennis Allen said. “He’s getting better every day. Hopefully, he’ll continue to improve.”

Outside linebacker Sio Moore has already been ruled out because of an ankle injury suffered in last week’s loss to Houston.

Without Roach and Moore, the Raiders will likely start Kaluka Maiava in the middle and slide Miles Burris outside. Burris started the previous two games inside while filling in for Roach.

The Raiders depart Sunday for London, where they’ll play the Miami Dolphins before returning home for the bye week.

NOTES

Running back Maurice Jones-Drew (hand) was limited in practice and is questionable.

Justin Tuck, who was sick earlier in the week, practiced and is probable.

Cornerbacks Carlos Rogers (knee) and Chimdi Chekwa (knee) were also limited and questionable.

Tackle Matt McCants (knee) is questionable.