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| The Patriots might be losing their punt returner for the season. (US Presswire) |
A week after sustaining a concussion against the Jets on Thanksgiving, Patriots wide receiver and punt returner Julian Edelman appears headed for injured reserve with a broken foot suffered in Miami last Sunday, according to a report from WBZ-TV's Dan Roche (via CBS Boston). The injury will require surgery.
Edelman, who had 21 receptions for 235 yards and three touchdowns, was seen leaving Sun Life Stadium on crutches and in a protective boot. The team hasn't made an official announcement on Edelman's status but did re-sign wideout Donte' Stallworth on Monday.
While the Patriots can compensate for Edelman's role in the offense (he's sixth on the team in receptions behind Wes Welker, Rob Gronkowski, Brandon Lloyd, Aaron Hernandez and Danny Woodhead), it's his special team contributions that could hurt the team the most. He's averaging 15.5 yards per return with a long of 68 yards and has one touchdown. Edelman also plays on the kick coverage unit.
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