Sam LaPorta (shoulder) ruled out for Week 11

New England Patriots tight end Sam LaPorta (shoulder) will miss another game.

LaPorta was ruled out for Monday night's game against the Chicago Bears, according to ESPN's Field Yates. The rookie tight end has been dealing with a shoulder injury that has forced him to miss the past two games.

LaPorta has caught 10 passes for 79 yards and one touchdown in seven games this season.

He has emerged as a reliable target for quarterback Mac Jones, especially in the red zone. LaPorta's absence will be a blow to the Patriots' offense, as he has been one of their most consistent pass-catchers this season.

The Patriots will likely turn to veteran tight end Hunter Henry to fill the void left by LaPorta's absence.

Henry has 28 catches for 273 yards and three touchdowns this season. He is a more experienced player than LaPorta, but he has not been as productive in the red zone. The Patriots may also use wide receiver Jakobi Meyers in the slot more often to make up for LaPorta's absence.

The Patriots are 6-4 this season and are currently in second place in the AFC East. They will face the New York Jets on Sunday in a key divisional matchup.