WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, West Virginia -- New England Patriots reserve wide receiver Brian Tyms injured his foot during Wednesday’s practice with the New Orleans Saints, a source tells ESPN. The foot injury is serious enough that it could threaten Tyms' season.
The 6-foot-3, 205-pound Tyms played in 11 regular-season games last season for the Patriots, with two starts. He also appeared in one playoff game.
As a No. 4 or 5 receiver, he added value as a gunner on the punt coverage team. Tyms finished with five catches for 82 yards and one touchdown in 2014, with vertical routes his forte (43-yard touchdown catch vs. Buffalo). He was vying for a similar role this season.
Tyms’ injury could have a trickle-down effect on other receivers vying for a roster spot, including 2013 draft picks Aaron Dobson (second round) and Josh Boyce (fourth round), as well as veteran Brandon Gibson.
The Patriots travel to New Orleans on Friday in advance of Saturday night’s preseason game against the Saints.