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The New England Patriots reportedly will be down a defensive starter Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts.

Linebacker Dont'a Hightower won't play after being listed as questionable with an injury to his ribs. Hightower suffered the ailment early in the Patriots' Week 5 win over the Dallas Cowboys.

Jerod Mayo and reserve linebacker Jonathan Freeny filled in for Hightower after he left the 30-6 win last week. Jonathan Bostic, who was acquired in a trade with the Chicago Bears before the bye week, also could see time on defense.

Thumbnail photo via Brace Hemmelgarn/USA TODAY Sports Images