Injury worries for the Patriots offense
ESPN reported this after Thursday's practice.
While the tackles have found their feet recently this season, the rest of the offensive line has been unsettled. Constant injuries have not helped, and with the news that Mankins and Connolly aren't practicing, it's worrying news for Tom Brady, who has been sensitive to pressure recently.The New England Patriots were without wide receiver Wes Welker (ankle) and guards Logan Mankins (ankle/calf) and Dan Connolly (back) for the start of Thursday's practice. All three players did not practice on Wednesday.
However, the addition of Mitch Petrus, a guard formerly of the New York Giants, will add some depth to an ailing offensive line group. However, he has only been on the team since he signed on Monday. Again, thanks to ESPN, we know he's flexible.
Petrus filled in briefly at left guard for the Giants last season, but said he's also comfortable on the right side and has lined up at center in practices with the scout team.This looks like a good pick up for the Patriots. With constant injuries to the line, a guy who can play all around the line will be invaluable as we head into the final stretch of the season.
As for Welker, he has been struggling with this ankle injury for a while. But I am in no doubt that he will play on Sunday. He's a vital cog in the fast paced offense, and he's Brady's favorite target... However, with Aaron Hernandez likely to start on Sunday after his injury, perhaps Welker won't be missed. Besides, wasn't Julian Edelman better than Welker before the season?
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