Report: Patriots' Michel avoids serious knee injury, considered week to week

An MRI revealed that New England Patriots running back Sony Michel did not suffer a major knee injury in Sunday's win over the Chicago Bears, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Rapoport said the rookie first-round pick "could miss time, but if he does, it may not be much." ESPN's Adam Schefter added that Michel is considered week to week moving forward and has no structural damage.

The Patriots initially feared an MCL sprain for Michel, who was hurt after having his legs bent awkwardly on a tackle and needed to be carted off the field.

Michel has played well for the reigning AFC champion, rushing for 422 yards and four touchdowns on 95 carries this season.

If the rookie does miss time, James White will likely be New England's featured back, while Kenjon Barner could also see an expanded role.

Copyright (C) 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.