
DIAZ WHILE AT NORTH TEXAS
DIAZ OUT REST OF PRESEASON
Josh Diaz, the Patriots 7th round pick, was injured in the Patriots preseason opener at Seattle. The rookie defensive end suffered what the team is now calling an abdominal tear late in Friday night's win. Diaz is expected to be out three to five weeks, missing the rest of the preseason and possibly the start to the regular season.
Listed second at left defensive end behind veteran Rob Ninkovich, Diaz was expected to be a big part of the rotation during the preseason as the Pats try to figure out just what they've gotten in the late round selection.
Diaz is no stranger to adversity.
"I've been through a lot in my life." The 21 year old said this morning, after hearing the team doctor's diagnosis. "I'm not going to hang my head."
Diaz initially committed to Oregon out of high school, rated as one of the top linebackers in the nation. Before he stepped foot on the field his career with the Ducks was over. A near fatal car accident had his football career up in the air. After returning home to Corinth, Texas to recover from his injuries Diaz decided to enroll at nearby UNT. He walked onto the football team and started six games at middle linebacker as a freshman.
Diaz grew three inches and packed on nearly thirty pounds before his sophomore season and was moved to defensive end. Diaz started every game in his final three years at North Texas and played well enough to catch the Patriots attention, leading to them drafting him in April.
"We've been really impressed with him so far. It's a shame to see this happen to him now but it's not likely going to cost him a roster spot." Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia said earlier today.
Michael Buchanan, a second year defensive end from Illinois, will likely take the extra snaps when the Patriots face the 49ers next week.
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