On the eve of a challenging game against the Seahawks in Seattle, the Patriots scratched a key player on each side of the ball.
According to Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com, the Pats have ruled out receiver Julian Edelman and linebacker Dont’a Hightower.
Hightower, who has a hamstring injury, missed last Sunday’s game against the Broncos. Edelman, who has a hand injury, has missed the last two games.
Reiss points out that, with Hightower’s backup (Tracy White) also out, defensive end Rob Ninkovich could be moved to linebacker.
With Edelman out and tight end Aaron Hernandez expected to be used sparingly if at all, receiver Wes Welker could get another chance to stick it in coach Bill Belichick’s face.