The New England Patriots could be forced to begin the regular season without their projected starting right guard.
Second-year pro Shaq Mason, who has taken first-team reps throughout training camp, has a broken hand, The Boston Globe’s Jim McBride reported Sunday, citing a league source.
It’s unclear at this time how Mason suffered the injury and how long it will sideline him for.
Mason started the Patriots’ first preseason game at right guard and participated in all three of the team’s joint practices with the Chicago Bears this past week. He did not play against the Bears on Thursday night, however, and the reason for his absence was unknown at the time. Josh Kline started in his place.
Mason, a fourth-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, played in 14 games as a rookie last season, starting 10.
Thumbnail photo via Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports Images
