Does Vincent Valentine going on injured reserve mean more playing time for Alan Branch?

The report that Vincent Valentine is going on injured reserve means Alan Branch will likely be a larger part of the Patriots’ defensive game plan again going forward.

Branch, who was a fairly steady presence in the middle for New England the last couple of seasons, played just six snaps in Sunday’s win over the Saints, sparking concern he could be in Bill Belichick's doghouse. But with the Patriots down to three pure defensive tackles — Branch, Lawrence Guy and Malcom Brown — Branch figures to be back in the mix again sooner rather than later.

One other thing worth keeping an eye on? The continued use of versatile youngsters like Adam Butler and Deatrich Wise. The duo has seen action at multiple spots up and down the defensive line over the first two games, and could also see an expanded role going forward.

Valentine, who has been struggling with a knee injury this year, is a 6-foot-3, 320-pound defensive tackle who is in his second season with New England. The 23-year-old played in 13 games last season, starting two of them.