What It Means:

It's terrible news for Lewis and the Patriots. A journeyman prior to this season, Lewis had excelled with New England, especially in the passing game. Coming into Week 9, Lewis ranked fourth on the Patriots this season with 24.36 Reception Net Expected Points (NEP) and first with a 9.41 Rushing NEP. His 0.21 Rushing NEP per carry makes him by far the most efficient member of the backfield, and James White is the only other Patriots' back with at least 10 targets on the season. If there's good news, it's that Lewis still has youth on his side. He just turned 25 in September.

White and Brandon Bolden will likely work as pass-game specialists, with Legarrette Blount serving as the run-game back. Expect Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski to hog targets in the passing game.