Mankins hip now a concern

Share

By Tom E. Curran

Before last week's game in Baltimore, it wasn't hard to Logan Mankins was laboring to get loose. The Patriots left guard made it through that game but on Wednesday he popped up on the injury report.

According to a source, Mankins was still expected to be ready for Sunday. But after three missed practices, we've learned that Mankins' hip is not improving as quickly as hoped and his availability for Sunday in Buffalo is now in doubt.

Mankins was listed as questionable for the game. If he can't go, the Patriots will have some shuffling to do on the offensive line. Ryan Wendell - who's started three games at center - is the listed backup to Mankins on the depth chart. Nick McDonald is Wendell's backup but the chance exists that Dan Connolly would move over from right guard to center.

The strength of the Bills defense right now is their defensive front. Mario Williams, Marcel Dareus, Kyle Williams and Mark Anderson comprise a potent group in the Buffalo 4-3 and the absence of Mankins could drastically affect the Patriots plans.

Contact Us