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FOXBORO, Mass. -- The New England Patriots are holding their breath.

Patriots running back Dion Lewis suffered a knee injury in the third quarter of Sunday's game against the Washington Redskins at Gillette Stadium. The team announced shortly after that Lewis wouldn't return to the Week 9 contest.

Lewis caught a pass from Tom Brady with the Patriots leading 20-3. He rumbled for 14 yards, but he appeared to twist his knee while going down. The 25-year-old also took a big lick to the head/neck area.

Lewis remained down on the ground for a few moments. He later returned to his feet and walked off the field under his own power -- an encouraging sign for the Patriots -- but did so with a limp.

Lewis has been a breakout star for the Patriots this season. He totaled four catches for 39 yards and four rushes for 14 yards before exiting Sunday's game, giving him 388 receiving yards and 234 rushing yards this season to go along with four total touchdowns.

If Lewis misses any time, it'll likely mean an increased workload for LeGarrette Blount, who had over 100 rushing yards Sunday. James White, who saw action when Lewis missed a game earlier this season, also could be thrust into action.

Thumbnail photo via Greg M. Cooper/USA TODAY Sports Images