According to Josina Anderson, the injury to Patriots defensive end Andre Carter is worse that it originally appeared:
Breaking: Agent Carl Poston just told me "looks like Andre (Carter) has a quad-related injury that will require surgery."
Carter's agent has stated that Carter will need surgery to repair this injury, which is a heavy blow for the Patriots. The injury was non-contact and initially appeared to be a knee injury on the same line as linebackers Jerod Mayo and Brandon Spikes. If Carter truly needs surgery, odds are pretty high that he will most likely be out for the rest of the season.
Carter has been the best player on the Patriots defense the whole season. He's been stellar in both run defense and while rushing the passer, and has provided veteran experience in the locker room. He's been labeled a true professional and has been one of the typical pick-ups that makes the Patriots extremely successful.
Carter will have around four weeks to recover from a surgery, if he is to return for the playoffs. However, I am not sure if that is strong enough support to keep Carter on the active roster. Should Carter be placed on the injured reserve, expect the Patriots to bring up rookie Markell Carter from the practice squad. Also look for an expanded role for Mark Anderson and Eric Moore- or look for the Patriots to shift their defense back to the 3-4 defense as Carter was one of the only reasons for staying in the 4-3 set.
Hopefully Carter can have a speedy recovery.