One of the few areas of concern for the Patriots during their 4-0 start to the season has been the kicking of Stephen Gostkowski. The normally reliable veteran missed five kicks – four PATs and one field goal – in the month of September and questions surrounding his performance had grown louder in recent days.
On Wednesday we learned more about the situation when the Patriots announced he would be placed on injured reserve. ESPN.com writes that Gostkowski will undergo hip surgery and will be lost for the remainder of the season as a result. The Boston Globe has some additional details as well. NBC Sports Boston has some teammates talking about the loss of Gostkowski. Workouts to find his replacement have begun and will continue.
The Boston Globe says Jamie Collins is doing a little bit of everything for the Patriots defense. Josh Gordon appears on the team’s most recent injury report but says he feels fine. The Boston Herald says Gordon feels like he’s expanding his game in Year 2. Kyle Van Noy blamed the Philly special for his unnecessary roughness penalty called after he hit Bills quarterback Matt Barkley last week. Van Noy was also named AFC Defensive Player of the Week.
The Boston Herald writes that Tom Brady may have no choice other than to rely on the rookies a bit more.
The Redskins aren't ready to reveal the identity of their quarterback for Sunday. Washington tight end Vernon Davis is in concussion protocol.
The Athletic looks at the longevity of Brady and Drew Brees and how they’re extending the expiration dates on quarterbacks.
