The New England Patriots notched back-to-back losses following Sunday's 33-21 defeat at the hands of the Buffalo Bills. Unfortunately, the Pats have now received more bad news after it was confirmed that two of their key players have been placed under the league's COVID-19 list.

As reported by Josh Alper of PFT, linebackers Matt Judon and Ja'whaun Bentley are now listed as out after testing positive for the coronavirus. Both players are Patriots starters and are considered to be important pieces of New England's defense.

Judon, in particular, currently leads the Patriots in sacks with 12.5 this season. The three-time Pro Bowl defensive end has started all 15 games for the Pats this season and also has no less than 57 tackles under his belt this term.

Bentley, on the other hand, has 88 tackles in 14 starts this season to go along with three forced fumbles and a sack.

The good news for the Patriots is that if both players are able to return negative test results in the coming days, then they should be available in time for New England's Week 17 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Pats are currently sitting on a 9-6 record and are now tied with the Bills for the top spot in the AFC East.