The Boston Herald is reporting that New England Patriots receiver Danny Amendola underwent offseason surgery to repair a torn groin muscle. This could explain why Amendola has had such a slow start to the season. Through four games, the sixth-year receiver has just three receptions for 16 yards on only nine total targets. Amendola has also visibly looked less explosive on the field. However, he is not using the injury or the surgery as an excuse.
"It really doesn't matter anymore, whether I did, or didn't (have the surgery)," Amendola said, sitting at his locker following practice. "I'm not going to make excuses. I don't want anything to seem like it's an excuse."
Amendola initially injured the groin in a preseason game last season. While he ultimately played through the pain, he did end up missing four games last year. Amendola finished with 54 receptions for 633 yards and two touchdowns.
Amendola's lack of production this season is alarming, as the New England offense has struggled mightily. The Patriots are averaging a league low 4.6 yards per play and rank just 29th in total offense. Amendola has been criticized by both fans and media for his play this year.
"I'm over it. I don't feel the need to talk about it. It's in the past. I feel great right now. I'm trying to get open on every play," he said. "It's not slowing me down. I feel great today. That's what I'm grateful for and thankful for. I'm just trying to prepare for this week."
The Patriots are 2-2 so far this year with a loss to the division rival Miami Dolphins in their season opener. The team has had serious issues with their offensive line and passing game, ranking just 30th in yards through the air.
Quarterback Tom Brady has been critical of himself and the offense as a whole recently.
"I don't think we've played well for a long time," Brady said after the team's 41-14 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday night.
