In Week 16 of the NFL season, the New England Patriots defeated the Baltimore Ravens 28-24, clinching a spot in the playoffs. But coming out of Week 16, the Patriots are more banged up than they were entering the week.
Following the game, the Patriots had three players enter concussion protocol, putting their status for Week 17 in question. Fortunately for the Patriots, they may be on the verge of getting one of the team's defensive leaders back as linebacker Robert Spillane is closing in on a return.
According to ESPN's Mike Reiss, Spillane was seen without a protective boot on his left foot, which signals he is making progress from an ankle injury that has kept him out of the past two games. While he could be ready to return soon, the Patriots have to balance the risk and reward as a team that's already in the playoffs but could have their eyes on the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
Patriots Quest for AFC East Title, No. 1 Seed Complicates Robert Spillane's Return
It would be one thing if the Patriots' defense performed well the past two weeks, but it's been complicated since Spillane has been on the sideline. In his absence, the Patriots' defense hasn't done as well defending the run as the Buffalo Bills run for 168 yards en route to a 35-31 victory over the Patriots, while the Ravens had 171 yards on the ground in Week 16. With Spillane sidelined, Jack Gibbens has seen an increased role on defense, playing 100% of the defensive snaps in Week 15 and Week 16 but there's been a drop off in play with that change.
Getting Spillane back would be a boost to the defense, especially with the Patriots still having a chance to win the AFC and secure a first-round bye. Though with a playoff spot already clinched, the Patriots could look to be more cautious with Spillane and keep him from returning until then.
The Patriots' upcoming schedule could make it easier to take a conservative approach. Heading into Week 17, the Patriots will be facing off against the New York Jets. Last week was tough for the Jets, as they lost 29-6 to the New Orleans Saints. Even without Spillane, this should be a victory for the Patriots, who will be looking to get closer to clinching the AFC East and can do so if the Bills lose to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Even if the Patriots don't clinch the division or jump into the top spot with a Denver Broncos loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 18, the Patriots will host a Miami Dolphins team that has little to play for, giving them another winnable matchup even if Spillane doesn't play.
With the added risk of aggravating the injury, the Patriots' best path may be to wait it out and have Spillane closer to full health for their playoff run. But there is a sense of urgency in Foxborough that is making his return a complicated decision.