Intriguing Patriots Defender Reportedly Will Miss Rest Of Season

The Patriots' injury woes continued before Week 4 kickoff against the San Francisco 49ers.

According to ESPN's Mike Reiss, linebacker and core special-teamer Oshane Ximines was diagnosed with a torn ACL after he was injured on a Week 2 play in punt coverage. The recovery timeline won't have the 27-year-old return for the season. New England placed Ximines on injured reserve on Sept. 18 but did not reveal a timeline nor the extent of his injury.

Ximines was a preseason standout who earned a roster spot after impressing coaches with his tough play. Reiss noted that Jonathan Jones highlighted the Old Dominion product as a potential surprise performer, but he'll have to wait until next season when he will be an unrestricted free agent.

The injury added more to New England's plate after losing captain Ja'Whaun Bentley, and Anfernee Jennings also went down with an injury, and head coach Jerod Mayo didn't offer specifics about the linebacker's return. The Patriots placed Alex Austin on injured reserve Saturday, and the offensive line remains banged up.

New England could get help after Week 4 with Kendrick Bourne reportedly expected to return to practice. And Sione Takitaki and Marte Mapu also could be elevated off the physical unable to perform list.