Injury that led to Patriots’ viral preseason moment will force roster move

With punter Bryce Barringer having to leave the game, quarterback Behren Morton stepped in as punter for the New England Patriots against the Philadelphia Eagles. Turns out, Barringer’s ailment may be more serious than initially thought.

The punter left New England’s Week 2 preseason matchup with an undisclosed injury. Now, head coach Mike Vrabel is expecting the Patriots to add some extra reinforcements, via Mark Daniels of MassLive.

“Serious enough that we will have to sign a new punter,” Vrabel said.

What that means for Baringer’s timeline is undetermined. He is at the very least going to miss time in training camp, creating an immediate need at the position. But Week 1 of the regular season is looming fast, based on what Baringer is dealing with, the punter may not have enough time to return before opening kickoff.

Who the Patriots decide to add at punter will be telling of where their current starter stands. If they sign an established veteran with starting experience, Baringer may be out long-term. But if they take a chance on an undrafted free agent or any punter with less experience, it would show a little more confidence in Baringer’s recovery.

Ultimately though, with the punter’s injury being undisclosed, that is all speculation. All that is known is that the Patriots will be adding to the position sooner rather than later. Vrabel and the organization are hoping Baringer doesn’t have to miss too much time. Ultimately, whoever is punting, they don’t want their special teams unit to face a massive drop off.

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