The New England Patriots will have to rebound from their shock Week 1 loss without a key contributor on each side of the ball, as linebacker Dont'a Hightower and wide receiver Danny Amendola have been ruled out of Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints.
Both players are dealing with knee injuries, and Amendola also has a concussion.
Hightower is one of the Patriots' most important defenders, both as the leader of the front seven and due to his ability to hold up in run support and in pass coverage. New England should cycle between veteran David Harris and Elandon Roberts to replace Hightower's snaps.
Meanwhile, the loss of Amendola will stretch an already injury-hit receiving corps. Brandin Cooks and Chris Hogan will likely start, with Phillip Dorsett - who was acquired via trade two weeks ago - set for an expanded role.
