A torn ACL for Julian Edelman could reshape the AFC

His contributions over the last few seasons have factored greatly into the Patriots winning both Super Bowl XLIX and Super Bowl LI.

Outside linebacker Tahir Whitehead suffered a knee injury during the first half of Friday’s preseason game against the New England Patriots.

Now, that’s not to say Edelman’s injury-initial tests indicated Saturday’s MRI will confirm a season-ending torn ACL-is not a big deal. Julian Edelman is done for the season. Brady and the Patriots are pretty good at providing enlightenment.

The 31-year-old Edelman, who signed a two-year contract extension during the offseason, had team highs in catches (98) and receiving yards (1,106) last season.

Tom Brady and the New England Patriots literally carved up Detroit’s defense.

The Patriots announced minutes later that he was officially questionable to return with a knee injury before ruling him out early in the third quarter.

Official confirmation should come over the weekend.

Trustworthy as the Patriots may be, the loss of Edelman would still be felt. For a potential Hall of Famer, Charles’ camp work hasn’t generated a lot of buzz, good or bad, so it’s wild to think this much is riding for him on one exhibition game. Asked about the injury by WBZ’s Steve Burton at halftime, coach Bill Belichick said, “I don’t know”. In the first nine games of games of 2015, the Patriots converted 88 of their 215 third-down attempts (40.9 percent) and went 9-0.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson passes against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half of an NFL football preseason game, Friday, Aug. 25, 2017, in Seattle.

No one wishes an injury on any player on any team. An MVP caliber season from Stafford is what the Lions need to help them make the playoffs in the 2017-2018 season.

Running backs Rex Burkhead and James White will likely see an increased role in the passing game.

He’s their most important playmaker outside of Rob Gronkowski.