PITTSBURGH -- The New England Patriots downgraded linebacker Kyle Van Noy to out for Sunday's AFC showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers because of a calf injury.
It marks the second straight game that Van Noy, who has played more defensive snaps than any Patriots linebacker this season, will miss. He ranks second on the team in tackles (73) and sacks (5.5).
Van Noy's versatility to play both off and on the line of scrimmage has great value to the Patriots, as he had assumed even more responsibility after linebacker and captain Dont'a Hightower was placed on injured reserve after Week 7.