The Patriots have downgraded OG Stephen Neal, RB Fred Taylor and DL Myron Pryor from doubtful to out for Sunday night's game against the Steelers.

Taylor had practiced for the first time since suffering a toe injury in Week Three. Neither Neal (shoulder) nor Pryor (back) had missed a game this season.

The way we see it

Neal is a tough loss for the Patriots. The veteran right guard is one of the better run blockers on the team, making Logan Mankins' return that much more crucial. Dan Connolly, who started the first seven games with Mankins out, could replace Neal, as could Quinn Ojinnaka. Pryor typically provides some depth along the defensive line, and rookie DL Kyle Love could be active for the first time. Taylor should be back for Week 11 as BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead will continue to carry the laod.