" In the past, Fred Taylor bristled at his reputation of being injury prone. One more injury won't help.

The Patriots' leading rusher had surgery yesterday to repair torn ligaments in his right ankle, a close friend of Taylor told the Herald last night.

The veteran running back will miss at least Sunday's game at Denver, and his timetable to return isn't known.

Contrary to reports that his season is in jeopardy, Taylor last night told a close friend he believes he will be back this season.

Taylor, who returned to his Boston-area home after the surgery, told his friend the procedure took two hours. He will know more about his playing status after meeting again with doctors.

Taylor was injured in the Pats' 27-21 victory against the Ravens last Sunday. He hobbled off the field following a seven-carry, 25-yard performance and has not practiced since. He believed he sustained a high-ankle sprain. Yesterday's procedure revealed more extensive damage then originally suspected."