New England Patriots rookie Ryan Allen talks with the media during rookie minicamp at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
New England Patriots punter Ryan Allen went down with a shoulder injury in the second quarter of yesterday’s win over the Indianapolis Colts, as the UDFA rookie out of Louisiana Tech went down on a safety after chasing after a horrible snap that sailed over his head from long snapper Danny Aiken. Allen left the game and did not return, and it was reported earlier today by the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport that Allen would have an MRI today.
According to a source close to MassLive.com’s Nick Underhill, “the initial though” is that the Patriots punter and holder has an AC sprain, and the MRI is scheduled for this afternoon.
An AC sprain could cost Allen next week’s game against either the San Diego Chargers or Denver Broncos, and the Patriots would then have to either sign a free agent punter or use Stephen Gostkowski in that role for a full game. Gostkowski is one of the best kickers in the game, and his powerful leg could allow him to be an effective punter, though it’s possible that yesterday’s performance as a punter was a mere fluke. There’s also the matter of who would hold for Gostkowski on field goals, as Allen was the team’s holder. Would Tom Brady do it? Ryan Mallett? If Allen is out next week with an AC sprain, then all eyes will be peeled on who- if anyone- the Patriots bring in to punt.
Allen’s injury has been rumored to be an AC sprain even shortly after the game, and there’s almost no threat of him suffering an even more severe injury.