Patriots RB Rex Burkhead dealing with slight tear in knee

New England Patriots running back Rex Burkhead reportedly has a slight tear in his knee, which has forced him to miss the team’s first two preseason games. Fortunately, according to a report from The Athletic’s Jeff Howe, the injury actually is relatively minor and isn’t expected to sideline him for any regular-season contests. The Patriots simply are being “extremely cautious” with the 28-year-old during the preseason.

With Rex Burkhead, I’ve been told there’s a good chance he could have played through his minor injury if this were a regular-season game. Knowing his value to the offense, the Pats have opted to take an extremely cautious path this week.

— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) August 16, 2018

Burkhead was limited in practice the day before the Patriots’ preseason opener last week and missed three consecutive practices ahead of last night’s 37-20 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Rookie running back Sony Michel also remains sidelined as he deals with a knee injury as well. Injuries were an issue for Burkhead last season as he appeared in just 10 games, rushing 64 times for 264 yards and five touchdowns while receiving 30 passes for 254 yards and three touchdowns.