Even though they showed some signs of life, the New England Patriots still ended up losing their 12th game of the season on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. However, the team does have something to feel good about — and we’re not just talking about its overall competitiveness: the injury bug also seemingly avoided the Patriots in Week 16.

With that being said, let’s assess the damage after re-watching the game.

Patriots injury analysis: Week 16

TE Austin Hooper: With 2:32 left in the game and the Patriots driving in Buffalo territory, quarterback Drake Maye hit Hooper down the seam. While the play resulted in a 26-yard pickup, Hooper was left wobbly after a collision with Bills linebacker Terrel Bernard. The play ended up drawing an unnecessary roughness flag against Bernard, and forced the tight end to walk to the sideline for further testing. However, he was quickly cleared and returned for one offensive and one special teams snap each later on the drive.

What this means for the Patriots

Hooper returning to the field can be interpreted as a positive sign when it comes to his outlook, a perspective shared by head coach Jerod Mayo on Monday morning.

“That’s my understanding as of right now,” Mayo said when asked whether or not Hooper has been given the all-clear after follow-up evaluation. “If I hear something different, I’m going to go back, and I’m going to tell you something different. But right now, he’s fine.”

Hooper’s positive outlook is good news for the Patriots. Not only has the 30-year-old been an integral part of their offense so far this season, the team also will have to execute a quick turnaround ahead of its next game.

The Patriots will host the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 28, for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff. Ahead of that game, the team will practice twice — starting on Tuesday. That session will give us a clearer view of Hooper and any other players currently dealing with injury.