New England Patriots fans’ worst nightmare may be coming true. Reports surfaced Friday evening that the Julian Edelman injury suffered against the Lions is feared to be a torn ACL. The receiver left the game in the first quarter and did not return.
Patriots suspect Julian Edelman tore his ACL, but do not definitely know, per source. MRI on Sunday to determine full extent of injury.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 26, 2017
New England Patriots Fear Julian Edelman Tore ACL
Edelman came out strong on the opening drive for the Patriots. The ninth-year quarterback-turned-receiver out of Kent State hauled in two consecutive passes for 34 yards. Edelman sustained the injury following his third catch, and subsequently left the field.
The star receiver spent a short time in the medical tent and before the medical staff carted him to the locker room. The Patriots came out on top against the Lions 30-28.
According to multiple reports, the Patriots believe Edelman has suffered a torn ACL. He will undergo an MRI on Saturday to provide further clarity as to the extent of the injury.
For the Patriots, an ACL tear would be a huge blow offensively. Despite their unprecedented depth at the wide receiver position, Edelman’s chemistry with Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is not easy to mimic. The receiver has been the favorite target of the Brady, amassing 3,826 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns over the last four seasons. Despite Rob Gronkowski, Brandin Cooks, Chris Hogan and Danny Amendola on hand, the Patriots will have some adjustments to make if Edelman misses the season.
Cooks looks to be next in line to step in at the top spot if Edelman is forced to miss time. The Patriots still have an arsenal of weapons many NFL teams would die for. Nevertheless, losing their high-possession receiver is sure to be a blow to the team heading into this season. Outside of Gronkowski and Brady, an Edelman injury is the last thing Patriots’ fans want to see.
