First reported update on Patriots injured star defender is concerning

The New England Patriots may face a significant setback in their upcoming regular season opener against the Seattle Seahawks, as there is growing doubt about the return of star defender Harold Landry. According to Kevin Stone of the New England Football Journal, there is a diminishing optimism regarding Landry's ability to be in full form for the beginning of the season. Stone, writing on X, suggested that Week 1 is a long shot and there is no clear timetable for Landry's return.

Last season, Landry led the Patriots with 8.5 sacks and played through a knee injury during the regular season, eventually missing the final two games, the divisional playoff round, and the AFC Championship Game. He underwent surgery this offseason but initially managed to play through his injury during Super Bowl LX. If Landry cannot return in time for the first game, the Patriots will have to rely on other edge rushers, including Dre Mont Jones, Elijah Ponder, Gabe Jacas, Bradyn Swinson, and Quintayvious Hutchins, to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.