The Patriots took a hit during Thursday's game.
FOXBOROUGH -- Regardless of the final outcome, the Patriots already suffered a loss during Thursday night's preseason game against the New Orleans Saints.
According to the NFL Network, linebacker Dane Fletcher suffered a torn ACL in his left knee when defending against a punt return in the first quarter.
Fletcher immediately fell to the ground following the play and was taken to the locker room with the help of the training staff. He started at middle linebacker in place of the injured Brandon Spikes.
The punt ended up not counting as the Saints were whistled for a procedure penalty.