Hightower (shoulder) won't play Sunday against the Chargers and could miss additional games, Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower hurt his right shoulder during last Sunday's victory over the Falcons while stretching out to make a tackle. It isn't clear if this injury is similar to the torn labrum he sustained in the same shoulder in 2014, though he was able to play through the pain, for the most part, that year and only ended up missing two games. Kyle Van Noy will likely take over at middle linebacker in Hightower's absence and could see a boost in IDP value.

Hightower (shoulder) didn't practice Wednesday, John Wilcox of the Boston Herald reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower suffered his shoulder injury Sunday night against the Falcons, one week removed from racking up seven tackles (six solo) and one sack against the Jets. Inexperienced linebacker Marquis Flowers will likely continue taking first-team snaps until Hightower is healthy again.

Hightower injured his shoulder during Sunday's 23-7 victory over the Falcons.

EDGE Analysis

Although the specifics of Hightower's injury aren't clear, this is definitely a concerning development since Hightower missed two games earlier in the season with a sprained knee. The linebacker will presumably undergo further testing in the coming days, but there's a chance his status won't be known until the Patriots release their first injury report of the week Wednesday.

Hightower recorded seven tackles (six solo) and one sack in Sunday's win over the Jets.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower matched fellow inside linebacker Kyle Van Noy for a team-high in tackles in what was easily his most productive outing of the regular season so far. Hightower only has 13 total tackles and two sacks this season, but after playing in 69 of the team's 76 defensive snaps Sunday, he may start to see more opportunities for increased production in the coming weeks.

Hightower (knee) is active for Thursday's matchup with the Buccaneers.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower will suit up for Thursday's matchup after being in limited in practice this week with a hamstring injury. Look for him to split reps with Kyle Van Noy at inside linebacker throughout the contest.

Hightower (knee) is inactive for Thursday's game against the Buccaneers.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower played through his knee ailment in Sunday's loss to the Panthers but won't be able to make the quick turnaround for Thursday night's battle with the Buccaneers - despite his limited participation in practice this week. In his absence, expect Kyle Van Noy to continue to see increased snaps on defense.

Hightower (knee) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice and is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Buccaneers.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower was able to play against the Panthers on Sunday with this injury, so it's likely the Patriots are limiting him as a precautionary measure. However, he only played 37 defensive snaps in Week 4, and he may be held back again Thursday. Therefore, his IDP value is tough to project, but the 10-day break following the mid-week matchup should help Hightower's journey to full health.

Hightower (knee) logged his first sack of the season Sunday against the Panthers in his return to action following a two game absence.

EDGE Analysis

Overall, Hightower had two solo tackles, so the sack was his main contribution on the day. He played 37 snaps (59.0 percent), and should see his workload increase as he regains his health. The 24-year-old is seemingly on track for Thursday's matchup against the Bucs barring any setbacks with his knee.

Hightower (knee) is active for Sunday's game against the Panthers.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower sat out New England's previous two tilts due to his sprained knee. He's expected to jump back into the starting lineup, though he may see a limited role if the team tries to ease his workload to prevent worsening the injury. Expect Kyle Van Noy to see some extra reps once again if Hightower is limited.

Hightower (knee) is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game versus the Panthers, but the he is reportedly expected to play, Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower has missed the previous two games with a sprained knee, but appears on track for a return Sunday. The Pats could be relatively cautious with his workload in order to avoid aggravating the injury, but that remains to be seen.