The New England Patriots did not only suffer one of the worst losses of the Bill Belichick era yesterday against the Kansas City Chiefs, the team also lost two of its key players on offense and defense to injury. Wide receiver Danny Amendola exited the contest with an apparent concussion, while linebacker Dont'a Hightower suffered a knee injury.
And while Hightower's injury looked potentially devastating, it appears the veteran dodged a bullett:
#Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower is believed to have suffered a minor MCL sprain vs KC, I'm told. With the long break, could actually play W2.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 8, 2017
Hightower is one of the Patriots' most important defenders due to his versatility, athleticism and communication skills. His injury affected New England's defense yesterday – although it was not the lone issue – and would have been even more devastating in case it would have turned into a longer-term issue.
However, Rapoport's report is encouraging in that it paints the 27-year old's injury as a minor one. And even if Hightower ultimately misses his team's week two contest against the New Orleans Saints, his long-term availability is much more important to the Patriots' defensive success.