Mike Vrabel: I don’t anticipate Gabe Jacas missing the season, but nothing is 100 percent - NBC Sports

What the report says

NBCSports.com reported that New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel does not expect second-round rookie linebacker Gabe Jacas to miss the entire season because of a knee issue, though he stopped short of making any guarantee. Jacas, who signed with the Patriots over the weekend, remains uncertain for game action as the team evaluates when his knee will allow him to return.

According to the NBC Sports report, Vrabel said he is encouraged by Jacas’ status and desire to play, but emphasized that “nothing is 100 percent.” Vrabel said Jacas wants to move beyond rehab work and get back to football, while the team plans to assess him over the next several days and acclimate him as quickly as possible.

Vrabel declined to discuss the details of Jacas’ contract. NBC Sports noted that the deal reportedly includes an injury waiver that could limit New England’s financial obligation if the knee prevents Jacas from playing. Vrabel framed the situation as one in which Jacas has had to confront the business side of professional sports earlier than many players, while maintaining a personal relationship with the team and coaches.

The situation matters because Jacas was a second-round pick, making his availability important to the Patriots’ rookie class and defensive depth. NBC Sports added that while medical concerns can affect where players are drafted, Jacas’ case is unusual because the concern has become a major issue after New England used a high pick on him. The Patriots are now waiting to see when he can come off the non-football injury list.