Report: James Develin Out 6-8 Weeks

Patriots fullback James Develin is expected to miss 6-8 weeks with a broken tibia, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">More on James Develin, per team source: Broken tibia, surgery scheduled in Charlotte. Described as clean break. Hope is 6-8 week recovery.</p>&mdash; Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeReiss/status/637503698978119680">August 29, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Develin suffered the leg injury in the fourth quarter of last night's preseason game against the Carolina Panthers after making a 10 yard reception. it wasn't long after before he was carted off the field. He was seen later on in the evening wearing an air cast and unable to put any pressure on the leg.

On the plus side, the break was clean and Develin didn't suffer any ligament damage; if you're going to hurt your leg, this is the kind of injury you want. On the negative side, he is likely going to require surgery and that 6-8 week timetable might be a bit optimistic. At the moment, look for Develin to head to the IR with designation to return slot as he recovers .

Here's hoping he gets back out there soon.