The New England Patriots opened up their preseason campaign Thursday against the Washington Redskins, but the thrill of football’s return in Foxboro is being weighed down by news of linebacker Harvey Langi missing up to five weeks due to internal laceration, according to Jeff Howe of The Athletic.

Harvey Langi took a hit to the side in practice that resulted in an internal laceration, according to a source. Due to a concern with his kidney, Langi isn’t expected to be cleared to return for at least 4-5 weeks. Brutal blow for the edge rusher off to a good start in camp.

This is another unfortunate development for Langi, who appeared in just one game last season for the Pats. After making his pro debut on Sept. 17, Harvey Langi and his wife figured in a car accident that resulted in the BYU product spending the rest of the season on the reserve/non-football injury list. Langi sustained injuries to his neck and back while his wife broke her hips after a vehicle rear-ended their car in October of last year.

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With Langi out, the Patriots will look for Roberts Elandon and Christian Sam to cover for the 25-year-old linebacker’s absence in the preseason.

The Pats are also getting back linebacker Dont’a Hightower after missing the talented run-stopper in the last playoffs due to a pectoral muscle injury.