The New England Patriots could begin the season without Pro Bowl guard Logan Mankins.

The 30-year old unknowingly played in the Super Bowl with a torn ACL and underwent offseason surgery to repair the injury. A typical nine-month recovery would keep him out until November, so James Walker of ESPN reports that it's likely Mankins will start the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. If he does so, he won't be available to play in the first six games but his roster spot for that time frame will be secure.

The Patriots, in accordance with their reputation, are as quiet on the issue as a Saturday morning in the countryside. They already lost Matt Light to retirement, so losing Mankins would be another hit to an offensive line that has long been essential to New England's success.

For news, updates and more from the New England Patriots offseason stick with this storystream. For full time Patriots news and analysis, head over to Pats Pulpit.