Patriots place LB on IR, sign rookie from Bears practice squad

Pats make a roster move ahead of Week 11

The New England Patriots have placed linebacker Mack Wilson on injured reserve and signed rookie linebacker Jack Sanborn from the Chicago Bears practice squad, the team announced Saturday. Wilson suffered a foot injury in the Patriots' 27-24 overtime win over the New York Jets on Sunday. He was carted off the field and did not return. Sanborn, 23, was a fifth-round pick by the Bears in the 2022 NFL Draft. He played in four games for the Bears this season, recording three tackles. The Patriots are now down to two healthy linebackers on their roster: Ja'Whaun Bentley and Raekwon McMillan. Bentley is dealing with a rib injury, but he is expected to play on Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. Sanborn is expected to be active for Sunday's game. He will likely play a role on special teams and could see some snaps on defense in sub packages. The Patriots are also expected to sign another linebacker in the coming days. They have been linked to several free agents, including former Patriots linebacker Jamie Collins.

Patriots defense struggling mightily

The Patriots' defense has allowed 160 points in its last four games. That is the most points allowed by any team in the NFL during that span. The Patriots' defense has been particularly vulnerable to the pass. They have allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete 70% of their passes for 1,067 yards and 10 touchdowns over the last four games. The Patriots' pass rush has not been able to generate enough pressure on opposing quarterbacks. They have only recorded four sacks in their last four games. The Patriots' secondary has also been struggling. They have allowed opposing receivers to average 10.5 yards per catch over the last four games. The Patriots' defense will need to improve if they want to make a run in the playoffs. They will face a tough test on Sunday against the Vikings, who have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL.