Dane Fletcher injury: Patriots linebacker reportedly has torn left ACL

The injury bug bit the New England Patriots early, as backup linebacker/special teams stalwart Dane Fletcher left his team’s game against the New Orleans Saints early in the first quarter after injuring his left knee on punt coverage.

Ian Rapaport of NFL.com has the unfortunate details:

Sorry for the confusion. Bad service. Tough break for #Patriots linebacking depth: I'm told LB Dane Fletcher has suffered a torn ACL—
Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 10, 2012

An undrafted free agent out of Montana State who signed in 2010, Fletcher has carved out a role on both defense and special teams. NFL.com lists him as having had 32 tackles in 10 games (five starts) last season.

He started Thursday’s game at inside linebacker in place of Brandon Spikes.