The New England Patriots were handed a huge boost late last week when Tom Brady saw his four-game suspension repealed.
Not so good
But, whilst the reigning Super Bowl champions will now be able to begin their title defense with one key starter back in the lineup, today brings news that another man at the head of the depth chart could be forced to miss Thursday's curtain-raiser against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
As reported by NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, starting center Bryan Stork is currently undergoing the league's concussion protocol - a timeline for his return unknown.
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Stork - a fourth round pick in the 2014 draft who started 11 games in his rookie season - has missed the last two New England practices, but the reason was unclear before now.
Indeed, although the 24-year-old starter suffered a concussion during the Patriots' final preseason game last week, it was thought he had been cleared by medical staff and no lingering issues remained. Clearly his status has changed as we approach Thursday's game.
Making plans
With Stork a key man ahead of Tom Brady, the second-year player's loss for the Steelers game would be a big loss.
The franchise were already making plans for his absense during Monday's game week practice with both veteran Ryan Wendell and rookie David Andrews taking snaps in the center position.
With Tom Brady back in the line up and Pittsburgh missing a number of key starters themselves, New England will be hoping to get off to the perfect start on Thursday night. Being without Stork for the challenge would make that ambition a little bit harder.
Patriots fans: Are you confident your team can get a W on Thursday? Have your say in the comments below...
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