The New England Patriots need depth at linebacker. Bobby Carpenter is ready to help.
Tom Curran of Comcast SportsNet New England confirmed that Carpenter is headed back to the Patriots. That's not a good sign for rookie Dont'a Hightower, who left last week's win over the Buffalo Bills with a hamstring injury.
Carpenter was a surprise cut by New England after a reportedly strong training camp. The Patriots' defense has looked a lot better this year, especially at linebacker with Hightower and a healthy Brandon Spikes.
New England's defense gets another tough test this week in Foxborough against Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos. Week 5 does not have a slate of terrific games, but Manning-Brady might be the game we've been looking forward to most all season.
UPDATE: The Patriots later announced the signing of Carpenter. The team released defensive lineman Terrell McClain to clear roster space for the linebacker.
Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.
