Patriots place Antonio Gibson on IR after torn ACL during win over Bills

The New England Patriots have lost running back Antonio Gibson for the season due to a torn ACL sustained during their recent game against the Buffalo Bills.

Why it matters: This injury significantly impacts the Patriots' backfield depth and overall offensive strategy moving forward.
Gibson had begun to carve out a role in the offense, especially given Rhamondre Stevenson's struggles with ball security, having lost three fumbles this season—the most among non-quarterbacks in the NFL.

What's new: The Patriots will place Gibson on injured reserve, necessitating the addition of another running back to their roster.

• Gibson had been a reliable option, contributing 16.6% of the team's offensive snaps this season, with 25 carries for 106 yards and one touchdown.
• The team may look to Terrell Jennings from the practice squad as a potential replacement.

The big picture: Gibson’s injury comes at a crucial juncture, with the Patriots holding a record of 3-2 and preparing to face the struggling New Orleans Saints (1-4).

• With Gibson sidelined, Stevenson is now thrust into the spotlight despite his recent issues with fumbling.
• Rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson is expected to step up as the No. 2 option behind Stevenson.

Yes, but: The Patriots must navigate not just personnel changes but also an evolving offensive scheme that relies heavily on the run game to support their quarterback.

• Offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien may need to adjust the playcalling, particularly if Stevenson continues to struggle with ball security, which could lead to increased reliance on Henderson or even creative schemes involving wide receivers.

What’s next: The Patriots will face the Saints in their upcoming game, where they will need to quickly adapt without Gibson.

• Establishing a strong ground game will be essential to take pressure off quarterback Mac Jones and maintain their competitive edge in the AFC East.

Zoom In: Gibson's contributions on special teams, particularly as one of the top kickoff returners, will also be missed.

• His notable 90-yard return for a touchdown in Week 2 showcased his explosive speed and ability to change field position, making his loss felt beyond just the running back rotation.

The bottom line: As the Patriots adjust to life without Gibson, how effectively they can manage their running back situation will play a pivotal role in their pursuit of a playoff spot this season.