The Patriots lost a key player and defensive leader on the first drive of the game.
Opening defensive drives have been rough for the Patriots all year, but this was especially damaging as Milton Williams left the game with an ankle injury.
After landing awkwardly after appearing to step on teammate Christian Barmore, Williams hobbled off the field, first to the blue medical tent and then to the locker room.
He’s officially questionable to return with an ankle injury. He returned to the sideline during the Patriots’ first drive.
Williams has been both a leader and a key run stopper in the middle of the defensive line for the Patriots, who entered the game with the NFL’s top run defense.
The Patriots were already thin up front, with Joshua Farmer inactive with an ankle injury, heading into the game.
Williams was the key piece of New England’s free agent class during the offseason, signing a $104-million contract.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.