The New England Patriots have placed Rex Burkhead on injured reserve.

Burkhead, who was on the injury report with a concussion the week after a season-opening win over the Houston Texans, left Sunday night's loss against the Detroit Lions in the third quarter. The team reported he had a neck injury.

Without Burkhead, whom the Patriots had signed to a three-year, $9.75 million free-agent contract in the offseason, first-round draft choice Sony Michel becomes the top option at running back, with James White filling the "passing back" role and Kenjon Barner - who agreed to terms on Tuesday to return to the team -- adding depth.