New England Patriots standout safety Rodney Harrison was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday, officially ending the veteran's 2005 season. Harrison tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Sunday's thrilling 23-20 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. He suffered the injury late in the opening period after Pittsburgh wide receiver Cedrick Wilson was taken down from behind and rolled on the All-Pro's leg. Harrison stayed down for several minutes before eventually being carted off the field. The injury leaves a gaping hole in the Patriots' secondary, with untested rookie James Sanders the most likely candidate to fill Harrison's spot. A two-time Pro Bowl selection and the NFL's all-time sack leader by a defensive back, Harrison was a key contributor during last season's win over Pittsburgh in the AFC Championship game. In that contest, he returned an interception for an 87-yard touchdown. The Patriots made a second roster move on Tuesday, waiving linebacker Wesly Mallard.