The Patriots left Cleveland with a big win, a winning streak and a burgeoning QB “controversy” Sunday. But their confidence and momentum did come at a price ito a key veteran and consistent contributor.
Cody Davis, a core member of the Patriots special teams, was placed on Injured Reserve Tuesday, and will now be lost for the remainder of the season due to surgery on his injured knee. Davis injured his knee in the Browns game and was ruled out almost immediately. Special teams leader and Patriots captain Matthew Slater said he was “gutted” by Davis’ injury. Special teams coach Cam Achord and head coach Bill Belichick both said no one player will be able to replace what Davis did on special teams, with Belichick adding at his Wednesday media availability, “You don’t just plug in a guy and get what Cody Davis has given us.”
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Davis led the team in special teams tackles with six and served as the punt protector. A combination of Adrian Phillips, Lil’Jordan Humphrey and Pierre Strong Jr. was used to fill in Sunday in Cleveland once Davis went out.
To help replace Davis, wide receiver/special teamer Raleigh Webb has been signed off of the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad to the Patriots' 53 man roster. Players like UDFA rookie and special teamer Brenden Schooler may be called upon for an expanded or altered role as well.
The Patriots, middle of the NFL pack in special teams rankings, can ill afford a setback there, and will continue to need the contributions of many to replace the value of one of their more unheralded players in recent years.
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