Bodden Placed on IR, Patriots Cut Down to 75

Ian Logue

Aug 31, 2010 at 7:10pm ET

Bad news this afternoon after the Patriots announced they have placed starting cornerback Leigh Bodden on injured reserve, which was a bombshell to Patriots fans who were anxiously awaiting today's transactions.

Patriots cornerback Leigh Bodden (PHOTO CREDIT: Icon/SMI)

Joining Bodden is defensive backs Josh Barrett and Bret Lockett, along with defensive lineman Darryl Richard. The team also released defensive back Terrence Johnson for the second time just days after re-signing him. These moves got New England down to the mandatory roster cutdown number, which now stands at 75 heading into Thursday night's game against the Giants.

Bodden had been battling a knee injury, but according to Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com, the team confirmed that it's apparently a shoulder injury that has ended his 2010 season.

Bodden seemed in good spirits after the news came out, and was active on Twitter to let fans know he'll be back even stronger next year.

"Overwhelmed with the love from every1! Y'all kno imma bounce back," Tweeted Bodden. "I've been hitting bumps my whole career...& always seem to get past'm, This will be no different!!"

His loss now puts additional pressure on rookie Devin McCourty and 2nd year defensive back Darius Butler, who will need to step up in his absence.