The Patriots’ defense is already down a few of its key playmakers this season. Now, they can add one more to that list.
Safety Steve Gregory broke his thumb during Sunday’s win against the Steelers, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. He is expected to be sidelined for a few weeks.
Gregory was injured after making a tackle during the third quarter on Sunday and could be seen wearing a towel over his right hand as he went into the locker room.
The 30-year-old has started seven of the nine games for the Patriots and is third on the team with 52 tackles this season. He also has two pass breakups and has been an integral part of the Patriots’ secondary alongside Devin McCourty. Gregory signed with the Patriots before the 2012 season and was a primary contributor during the team’s run to the AFC championship game last season. He recorded 37 tackles, three interceptions and forced two fumbles in 12 games during 2012.
With Gregory sidelined, the Patriots will likely turn to rookie Duron Harmon to help pick up the slack in the secondary. Harmon, 22, has played in eight of the Patriots’ nine games this season, recording eight tackles, three pass breakups and two interceptions on the season. Both of his interceptions came in the last two weeks, helping seal wins over the Dolphins and Steelers.
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