Report: Logan Mankins Suffers Sprained MCL, Could Return for Playoffs

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Dec 27, 2011

Report: Logan Mankins Suffers Sprained MCL, Could Return for PlayoffsThe left side of the Patriots' offensive line took a serious hit Saturday, but the long-term impact might be minimal.

Left guard Logan Mankins has a sprained MCL in his left knee, according to the Boston Herald, and won't play in Sunday's regular-season finale against the Bills. However, Mankins is hoping to return for the playoffs. 

Since the Patriots have a first-round bye, Mankins would have three weeks to rest in time for the divisional round. 

Mankins suffered the injury while playing left tackle during the Patriots' 27-24 victory against the Dolphins. Donald Thomas filled in at left guard, and Dan Connolly, Ryan Wendell and Nick McDonald could also assume the position while Mankins is out. 

Mankins was at left tackle because Matt Light's ankle injury flared up Saturday morning. Light injured the ankle earlier in the season against the Chiefs, but he was not on the injury report last week, so it surprised the Patriots when he showed up to Gillette Stadium in pain.

There is no timetable for Light's return. Rookie Nate Solder moved from right tackle to left tackle after Mankins' injury, and rookie Marcus Cannon filled in at Solder's spot, which had previously been vacated due to Sebastian Vollmer's foot injury.

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