BOSTON (CBS) — The big letdown from last night’s Patriots-Saints game is the loss of Dane Fletcher.

There are multiple reports saying the Pats linebacker has a torn ACL and will be done for the season. This is huge. Dane fills the Patriots defensive depth chart. He was a lock to make the roster. Fletcher did work with the linebacker corps as a back-up and a starter and also played a role on special teams.

READ: Four Ups, Four Downs From Patriots Preseason Opener

His loss will open the door for Bobby Carpenter. He came in for a reserve role against the Saints and I expect him to do that for the time being. Also, maybe Jeff Tarpinian will get a bigger role. He made the Pats roster last season and this could give him more time to improve on his game. Also Tracy White and Niko Koutovides, could scratch out more time also.

Regardless, the early-season loss of Fletcher is a big one for Bill Belichick’s defense.

Follow Levan Reid on CBSBostonsports.com and on Twitter @LevanReid all Patriots’ season long!