Impact of Campbell’s Injured Reserve Status on Patriots Revealed

Bassyonni

ago 1 hour

The New England Patriots have confirmed a significant roster change. Will Campbell, the team’s starting left tackle, has been placed on injured reserve due to a sprained MCL in his right knee. This injury occurred during the third quarter of last week’s victory against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Impact of Campbell’s Injured Reserve Status on Patriots

Campbell, a first-round draft pick in 2023, is set to miss a minimum of four games. The Patriots’ coaching staff is optimistic about his return later in the season.

Vederian Lowe Steps Up

Vederian Lowe will fill Campbell’s role. Initially, there was uncertainty regarding who would step in, but Lowe’s experience as a non-starting tackle made him the top candidate. He had previously filled in for Campbell during the injury against the Bengals.

Player Background: Vederian Lowe, drafted in the sixth round by the Minnesota Vikings in 2022, joined the Patriots in 2023.
Past Performance: Over two seasons, Lowe has started 21 games but faced challenges, which prompted the Patriots to select Campbell fourth overall in the last draft.
Opportunity: Lowe aims to showcase his skills, especially with free agency approaching, while helping the team maintain its performance.

Upcoming Matches and Recovery Timeline

The Patriots will play five remaining regular season games without Campbell:

Week 13: vs. New York Giants – Monday, Dec. 1, 8:15 p.m. ET
Week 15: vs. Buffalo Bills – Sunday, Dec. 14, 1 p.m. ET
Week 16: at Baltimore Ravens – Sunday, Dec. 21, 1 p.m. ET
Week 17: at New York Jets – Sunday, Dec. 28, 1 p.m. ET

Campbell may return for the Week 18 game against the Miami Dolphins, depending on his recovery progress. A total of six weeks will have passed following his injury by then.

Team Adjustments and Player Developments

The Patriots have also added depth to their offensive line by signing Thayer Munford Jr. from the practice squad. In addition to this, the team made several roster adjustments:

Alex Austin, a cornerback, was placed on injured reserve to create roster space for Munford.
Miles Battle was promoted from the practice squad to fill Campbell’s spot.
Rookie CB Brandon Crossley took Battle’s position on the practice squad.

Meanwhile, left guard Jared Wilson also sustained an injury, diagnosed as a high ankle sprain. Wilson is considered week-to-week and will miss the upcoming game against the Giants. Both players’ injuries come at a crucial time as the Patriots aim to solidify their playoff position.