After news broke that the New England Patriots will be without top running back Dion Lewis, due to a second knee surgery, the bad news kept coming Sunday.


who played in 14 games last season with 13 starts, had figured to start at right tackle this season, after opening last season at the spot. Following an injury to left tackle Nate Solder, early last season, Vollmer assumed the duties from the left side of the field.

The 32-year-old opened training camp on the physically unable to perform list this year, after dealing with ankle discomfort through last season and this summer.

According to CSNNE's Tom E. Curran, Vollmer has been dealing with a lingering hip issue, as well, which could be the reason he is likely on his way to IR.


Veteran tackle Marcus Cannon, who saw increased playing time after Solder's injury last season but struggled through the year, has started both of the team's two preseason games at right tackle so far. The 28-year-old has looked better through the first two weeks this year, however.

The absence of Vollmer should also add to the work load of both Cameron Fleming and LaAdrian Waddle, who both were looking to factor into some back up roles so far this camp.

Along the interior, recently acquired guad Jonathan Cooper and rookie Joe Thuney might be poised to start for New England, with veteran Josh Kline in the mix along with Mason.

 

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