New England Patriots Nate Solder out for season

Solder’s untimely injury could prove to be a significant setback for the undefeated Patriots, though quarterback Tom Brady’s ability to get rid of the ball quickly will be helpful.

The only Patriots player (offensive or defensive) who has played more snaps than Solder since that 2011 season (4,242) is Brady (4,648). Solder is out for the year, according to McBride.

Solder has started every game for the Patriots over the last two seasons and has only missed one game since he joined the Patriots as a first-round draft choice in 2011.

At the same time, the Patriots do have other options. He has played guard in goal line situations this year, and has rotated in for Solder and Sebastian Vollmer at both tackle spots. The veteran is the senior member of the New England offensive line, and does have a few experience on the left side, including five starts there as a rookie when he filled in for an injured Matt Light.

Marcus Cannon filled in for Solder at left tackle in the second half. Tight end Michael Williams began his career as a tackle with the Detroit Lions and presumably could move back there now that Solder is out.

“Yeah, that was a call they made and we’re just going to roll forward and see what happens, ” the 6-foot-7-inch, 325-pound Solder said before leaving the locker room with an ice pack on his arm. Offensive line depth comes in handy, though. First place takes home $100,000!