The New England Patriots left their Week 11 matchup with a bitter taste.

Cam Newton failed to take the team up for a game-winning drive (fourth time this season) and New England fell 27-20 to the Houston Texans. The defense couldn’t handle Deshaun Watson throughout the entire game and the offense was held together solely by Damiere Byrd.

In addition to the difficult loss, the Patriots lost running back Rex Burkhead to an injury that’s reportedly season-ending. Burkhead has the team’s second-most rushing touchdowns (3) and the most receiving touchdowns (3). He’s become an invaluable piece in the Patriots’ offense and his teammates spoke about the injury following the game.

James White

I’m hurt for him. I’m still hurting for him. (He’s) a good friend of mine — not just a teammate, but a guy I call my friend. To see him go down like that is never good. He was having a great year, as well, making huge plays for us. It’s just tough, man. You just hate to see it.

Whenever anybody’s not really moving too much, it’s just kind of scary. I was just hoping for nothing serious. They’re going to do more (tests) on him, I guess.

But I hope he can come back better than ever, and I’ll miss my guy, man. He’s been making huge plays for us — special teams, offense — ever since he’s been here. It’s just tough to see, man. I don’t know.

Cam Newton

Knowing how great of a teammate he is, knowing how great of a leader he is, knowing what he brings to this team. But he’s a warrior, and I know he’ll be back stronger. His influence will be missed.

Damiere Byrd

You never want to lose your brother or your teammate. Obviously, Rex has been great for us throughout the season, and it was very tough to see him go down. We’re praying for him and hoping that he makes a speedy recovery and that the injury isn’t too bad.

Sony Michel was just activated off the injury reserve list and he’ll join the running back crew that currently carries White and Damien Harris.

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