With Logan Mankins (knee), Brian Waters (hasn't reported) and Sebastian Vollmer (back) all out of action, the Patriots were already thin in the area of experience on the offensive line.
Robert Gallery's decision to retire on Saturday was another blow.
"I talked to Robert several times in the last few days," Bill Belichick said. "He made that decision; I respect it. He’s a good player; he had a good career. I’m sorry it didn’t work out this year, but I understand it, and both of us will move on. He worked hard while
he was here; did everything we asked him to do."
Belichick said Gallery's retirement will mean an open door for someone else.
"As we’ve talked about before, unfortunately if one player goes out then it provides an opportunity for somebody else, and that’s what it will be -- opportunities for other players," Belichick said.
Gallery, the second overall pick in 2004 for the Raiders, isn't a huge loss for the Patriots. He was brought in to be an experienced backup, but he was not having a good camp.
In other news, Belichick offered his condolences to Eagles coach Andy Reid over the death of his son, Garrett.
"Very sad," Belichick said. "Andy is a good friend of mine. My heart goes out to him and his family."
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