The Patriots have made it official and have placed captain and linebacker Jerod Mayo on the injured reserve, ending his season.
News broke yesterday that Mayo's year was in jeopardy due to surgery on his pectoral muscle and his recovery timeline was in question. After initial estimates projected a recovery of 6 weeks, with Mayo expected to be football ready in 8 weeks. Unfortunately, that is no longer possible.
The Patriots have opted to sideline Mayo and let him have a full year to recover, alongside fellow captain and key nose tackle Vince Wilfork.
Mayo was the team leader in tackles and presents a void that will not be easily filled. The Patriots hope a combination of Dane Fletcher and Jamie Collins can take over with little fall off, but a transition period is to be expected. Look for Donte' Hightower to take over the green dot as the playcaller on defense, while players like Devin McCourty, Rob Ninkovich, or Chandler Jones might emerge as potential captains and emotional leaders.
Let's all wish Mayo a speedy recovery.
In corresponding roster moves, the Patriots have signed DT Andre Neblett and have added rookie cornerback Travis Howard to the practice squad/