As if not having their starting quarterback for the first four games of the season was bad enough, New England Patriots fans haven't received great news lately when it comes to their wide outs.

Julian Edelman is currently sidelined with a leg injury which he suffered in training camp. The severity of Edelman's injury is unknown, but there is a possibility he could miss the first game of the regular season against the Pittsburg Steelers.

"Any time you're not able to go out there and play it's difficult, but it's part of the game. I'm just working hard, doing everything I can each and every day to improve myself each and every day," Edelman said.

Last year Edelman led the Patriots in catches with 92, and he had a solid year with 972 receiving yards. Tight end Rob Gronkowski was the only player on the Patriots who had more receiving yards on the roster last season. Edelman has been Brady's "go-to guy" in the slot area, completely replacing Wes Welker in a major way. It was Edelman who caught the game-winning touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 49.

There is currently no timetable or date for Edelman's return.

Another wide receiver hurting at the moment is Brandon LaFell. LaFell was an excellent free agent addition last season, and he was the best pure wide receiver for the Patriots last year. Unfortunately, LaFell is still recovering from a foot injury which has caused him to miss the entire preseason thus far. Rumors have circulated that LaFell is still in a walking boot, but others have disputed that claim.

LaFell could start the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list because of his foot injury.

Former second round draft pick Aaron Dobson is unsurprisingly still hurt as well. Dobson has had numerous injuries dating back to his Marshall playing days and started just one game last year. Dobson has two more years remaining on his rookie contract. Constant foot injuries have halted any major progression for Dobson, but Bill Belichick isn't giving up on him just yet

Wide receiver Brian Tyms was waived after hurting his foot Wednesday against the New Orleans Saints in a joint practice. More than likely he'll pass waivers and return to the Patriots on the injured reserve list. In other words, the Patriots will keep Tyms, but he won't be playing for them this season. Now is the time for Josh Boyce to finally step up and improve his catching abilities if he wants to possibly grab a starting roster spot.

The Patriots recently signed Reggie Wayne to a one year deal. Wayne clearly isn't in the prime of his career, but he may have to play a pivotal role for Jimmy Garoppolo who is scheduled to start his first ever regular season game in September.

 Follow Damon Salvadore on Twitter @DamonSalvadore1