The New England Patriots are going to be without yet another one of their skill position players on Monday Night. According to the team’s official Twitter account, running back Rex Burkhead didn’t make the trip to New York and won’t play on Monday Night Football. In addition to Burkehad, the Patriots also ruled out wide receiver Josh Gordon and tight ends Ryan Izzo and Matt LaCosse.
RB Rex Burkhead has been downgraded to out for #NEvsNYJ.
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 20, 2019
New England Patriots Running Back Rex Burkhead Ruled Out for Monday Night Football
Burkhead initially suffered his foot injury following Week 4’s matchup against the Buffalo Bills. During that game, Burkhead recorded 47 rushing yards and a touchdown to go along with six receptions for 22 yards while splitting carries with Sony Michel and James White. However, Burkhead missed each of the following two games. Despite being a gime-time decision for Week 6’s matchup for the New York Giants, Burkhead will need at least one more week before he’s ready to take the field.
Burkhead is one of several skill position players who will miss Monday’s matchup. Josh Gordon suffered a knee injury in Week 6 and won’t suit up against the division rivals. Additionally, Ryan Izzo and Matt LaCosse are going to miss the contest, while Ben Watson makes his season debut as the sole tight end on the roster. Additionally, wide receiver Phillip Dorsett is questionable after missing the majority of the past two games with a hamstring injury.
With Burkhead sidelined, Sony Michel figures to see a larger role in New England’s passing game. The former first-round pick hasn’t been efficient or effective this season, but the coaching staff clearly believes he still deserves playing time. James White is going to see his usual share of the action, while Brandon Bolden should see some time as a rotational member of the backfield.
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