New England Patriots: Rex Burkhead injury could take away another weapon

The New England Patriots may be without versatile running back Rex Burkhead come Sunday as the face the Houston Texans in Week 3.

The New England Patriots could be without an emerging member of their offense come Sunday’s matchup against the Houston Texans. Rex Burkhead injured his ribs during Sunday’s win over the New Orleans Saints. As a result, he did not practice Wednesday, and did not appear on the field for the start of Thursday’s workouts per ESPN’s Mike Reiss.

You never want to see injuries happen, however the running back position is a spot with ample depth for the Patriots. With the injury to Burkhead, the Patriots now have Mike Gillislee, James White, Dion Lewis and Brandon Bolden on the game day roster comprised of 46 players.

Burkhead had a great start to the game on Sunday, snagging three passes for 41 yards, averaging 13.7 yards per catch for the game. A 19-yard catch was his longest of the afternoon. Burkhead appeared to get into a nice groove especially at the beginning of the game, quickly finding his niche within the offense.

More from New England Patriots

• 5 Players the New England Patriots gave up on way too early
• New England Patriots upgrading their ground attack
• Patriots looking to sign a former star running back for 2023
• NFL: Mike McCarthy and 4 Head Coaches on the hot seat heading into 2023
• New England Patriots QB options in 2024 if Mac Jones fizzles out

He did not play on the offensive unit after the unit’s fourth series of the game. He did however manage to get in the game on the punt return unit, signifying that the injury may not have been as serious as once thought.

This injury could not have come at a worse time for Burkhead, who was beginning to make himself stand out among a crowded group of running backs, particularly as a passing threat. Now, depending how long his injury is, he will have to work his way back into the gameplan.

White and Gillislee have gotten the majority of the snaps this season (73 and 54 respectively) so on paper this injury does not affect New England dramatically.

Next: Ranking 10 undefeated NFL teams by chances at 16-0

This puts the New England Patriots down a weapon, but they have plenty more at their disposal. If there is one thing the NFL as learned over the years, it is that Bull Belichick and company thrive in the face of adversity.