Week 3 Patriots vs Lions: Rex Burkhead leaves game with apparent neck injury

The New England Patriots’ injuries are slowly starting to pile up. After the team entered the contest down three starting defenders – Trey Flowers, Patrick Chung and Eric Rowe – it appears as if another core player, this time on offense: according to the team, running back Rex Burkhead is being evaluated with a neck injury.

The 28-year old, who has been dealing with injuries throughout his career and suffered a concussion in week one, received two offensive touches so far during the Patriots’ game against the Detroit Lions. Even though his impact tonight has been relatively limited, losing him is still a loss for the team that changes its running back rotation.

Sony Michel, who has seen plenty of action during his second-ever NFL game, will continue to see the vast majority early-down snaps, with James White the main option on third downs and in obvious passing situations. Burkhead would have provided depth behind both men but it would not be a surprise to see him shut down tonight.