New England placed defensive tackle Sealver Siliga (foot) on the short-term injured reserve list Saturday, meaning he'll be out of commission until at least late November. Siliga, who missed much of the preseason with a left hand injury, exited the Oakland game last Sunday in the first quarter because of his latest problem.
Siliga had been a surprise addition to the Patriots' d-line since arriving midway through last season. His emergence as a versatile interior place had allowed Vince Wilfork to play more end in New England's 3-4 looks, while Siliga manned the nose tackle spot. His absence for the time being could force Wilfork to play more nose in the games ahead.
Adding to their roster at the position, New England claimed a first-year player off Carolina's practice squad. Casey Walker is listed at 6-1, 340. This move comes a day after the team re-signed DL Ben Bass, a player for whom they traded during the preseason, then released a short time later. Bass is on the practice squad, Walker on the 53-man active roster..
Siliga's absence could allow 2014 first-round draft choice Dominique Easley to see more game action as well. He missed much of the preseason due to continuing recover from a right knee injury suffered in college last season.
