Vince Wilfork will likely miss the remainder of the 2013 season. Credit: Getty Images
The Patriots earned their biggest victory of the young 2013 season Sunday night in Atlanta but also suffered a blow that could potentially derail their plans for having one of the top defenses in the NFL.
Multiple reports stated Monday morning that defensive lineman Vince Wilfork will miss the remainder of the 2013 season after injuring his right Achilles tendon early in the win over the Falcons. The Boston Globe first reported that Wilfork had an Achilles injury.
“I really don’t know much right now,” Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said Monday, though he also added more info would be available “at some point” during the day.
Wilfork has been an anchor on the Pats’ defensive line for nearly a decade as he was a first round pick out of Miami (21 overall) in 2004. The tackle has made five Pro Bowl teams with New England and was named an All-Pro last season.
The Patriots will likely sign another defensive tackle in the coming days as they were already thin at the position. Undrafted rookie Joe Vellano stepped in for Wilfork Sunday night.
Follow Metro Boston sports editor Matt Burke on Twitter @BurkeMetroBOS
