Patriots Suffer Double Blow in Week 2 Matchup Against Seahawks
The New England Patriots endured a challenging week, both on and off the field, as they faced off against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2. The Patriots not only lost the game but also witnessed key injuries that could significantly impact their season. Among the most significant setbacks was the injury to linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley, who tore his pectoral muscle during the game.
Bentley, a vital player for the Patriots' defense, was initially classified as questionable to return after the injury. However, it is now confirmed that the injury will keep him on the sidelines for an extended period. This is a substantial loss for the Patriots, given Bentley's consistent performances over the past few seasons.
As a cornerstone of the Patriots' defense, Bentley has consistently delivered more than 100 tackles in each of the past three seasons. In the opening game of the season, Bentley made an impressive 12 tackles and recorded 0.5 sacks in the Patriots' victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. The 28-year-old linebacker was drafted by the Patriots in 2018 as a fifth-round pick and has spent his entire professional career with the team. Despite an injury-plagued rookie season that limited him to two starts, Bentley was part of the Patriots' squad that clinched their sixth Super Bowl title in his first year.
Over the years, Bentley's performance has only improved. In the 2020 season, he recorded 91 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Last year, Bentley reached new heights with 114 tackles and a career-high 4.5 sacks. His absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the Patriots' defense.
Unfortunately, Bentley was not the only casualty during the game. Linebacker Oshane Ximines also exited early due to an injury, adding to the Patriots' woes.
To fill the gap left by Bentley's injury, Raekwon McMillan will step into the starting lineup. McMillan, who was a second-round pick in the 2017 draft, is in his fourth season with the Patriots. Before joining New England, he played for the Miami Dolphins and the Las Vegas Raiders. McMillan has 33 career starts, including one for the Patriots during the 2022 season. However, McMillan missed the entire 2023 season after suffering an Achilles injury in the spring, which raises questions about his readiness to take on a leading role in the defense.
The Patriots will need McMillan to rise to the occasion, given the critical role he will now play. As the team grapples with these injuries, the coaching staff and players must rally together to overcome these setbacks and maintain their competitive edge throughout the season.