The New England Patriots are playing a very good game on the road against the Denver Broncos. However, not all is going perfectly well as the team is also dealing with injuries. While Dion Lewis returned after a trip to the medical tent, special teams ace Matthew Slater appears to be on his way to finish the game on the sidelines.
The Patriots announced that the veteran is doubtful to return:
#Patriots injury update: Matthew Slater has a hamstring injury and is doubtful to return. #NEvsDEN
Slater is not only a team captain and core special teamer, with Chris Hogan out due to an injury, he also serves as the fourth wide receiver. Now, New England's position depth chart is down to Brandin Cooks, Danny Amendola and Phillip Dorsett. The Patriots' kicking units, meanwhile, will likely have to replace the player leading them in special teams tackles tonight.
Expect the team to play it as safe as possible with Slater, who missed the first four games of this season because of a hamstring tear.
UPDATE: The Patriots downgraded Slater to OUT for the night.
#Patriots injury update: Matthew Slater (hamstring) has been downgraded to out. #NEvsDEN
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) November 13, 2017