The Patriots suffered a big blow on Sunday when rookie left tackle Will Campbell was carted off with a knee injury in the third quarter of the team's win over the Cincinnati. Though the injury is a difficult loss for the team's offensive line, it appears Campbell may have avoided a worst case scenario.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Monday morning that Campbell is believed to have suffered an MCL sprain. Rapoport reports that Campbell will have an MRI on his knee and could be placed on injured reserve, but added there is "hope he returns when it counts the most."

Head coach Mike Vrabel did not confirm the nature of Campbell's injury Monday, but said it's not expected to be season-ending.

"He won't be out there this week. It's going to be a couple weeks," Vrabel told reporters. "We'll have to make a decision here on the roster to see how long that'll be. But it's nothing that's gonna hopefully put him out for the entire season."

If Campbell is placed on injured reserve, he would miss at least four games. But as Rapoport insinuated, that would leave open the possibility that Campbell could return for what has become a likely scenario of the Patriots playing in the postseason.

For Patriots fans, that's good news compared to what seemed to be a devastating injury on Sunday. Trainers came onto the field to test Campbell's knee after he was hurt. Then as he was carted off, Campbell placed a towel over his face to shield his emotions.

The Patriots play the New York Giants on Monday Night Football December 1 at Gillette Stadium. After that game, New England heads into the bye week.

Jared Wilson injury

Campbell was not the only injury the Patriots suffered Sunday. Rookie left guard Jared Wilson was ruled out with an ankle injury. He was reportedly seen leaving the stadium with a walking boot after the game.

Rapoport reported Monday that Wilson suffered a high ankle sprain but the team is hopeful it'll be on the shorter side of the recovery window, which is usually 4-6 weeks. Vrabel said at his news conference it's "too soon to tell" and the team will see how the week plays out.

Special teamer Brenden Schooler was also seen with a walking boot on his left foot, while defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga left with a chest injury. The Patriots are already shorthanded at that position as star defensive lineman Milton Williams is on injured reserve with a high ankle sprain.