The New England Patriots suffered their first injury before reporters could even get eyes on the team.

The Patriots placed linebacker Raekwon McMillan on injured reserve late last month after he reportedly suffered a partially torn Achilles during OTAs.

Belichick was asked about McMillan this week before Tuesday's open OTAs session.

"Yeah, Raekwon gave us a lot of versatility," Belichick said. "It just was an unfortunate situation, but you know, he's young. I think things went well when he came back from the ACL a year ago, played in every game, except for one. I think he missed with a thumb or something, but, hopefully he'll be back."

McMillan can only play this season if New England releases him with an injury settlement. He's already missed two full seasons with torn ACLs in 2017 and 2021.

McMillan primarily played linebacker but also took some snaps on the line of scrimmage as a blitzer. He played 250 defensive snaps and 277 special teams snaps last season.

Rookie linebacker Marte Mapu has taken on a bigger-than-expected role early in OTAs. The Patriots also have Mack Wilson and Chris Board to step in where McMillan might have filled a role this season.

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