As expected, the Patriots got left tackle Trent Brown back at practice on Wednesday in Foxboro. They worked on the lower practice field next to Gillette Stadium on one of the most important days of the week in their preparation for the Houston Texans.
Brown had been absent from the previous two practices, but ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Tuesday that he had an “excused absence” that wasn’t injury-related. Barring any unforeseen events, Brown will be ready to go for Sunday’s season opener.
The team had full attendance on Wednesday, after Brown and long snapper Joe Cardona were absent on Tuesday. Other players who have been dealing with recent injuries were also present, such as right tackle Marcus Cannon, cornerback Duke Dawson, and running backs Rex Burkhead and Sony Michel.
Michel, however, only recently returned after missing nearly all of August with a knee issue. Head coach Bill Belichick acknowledged that Michel has had to work a bit harder to get up to speed in his progress as he gets ready for the first NFL action of his career.
“[Michel] missed some time, so he’s a little behind,” said Belichick. “He’s working hard to catch up on the field in all areas.”
Patriots pass rush consultant Joe Kim works with edge rushers during practice on Sept. 5, 2018 in Foxborough, Mass. (Matt Dolloff/WBZ-FM)
Another interesting detail: Patriots pass rush consultant Joe Kim (pictured above) worked to the side with the edge rushers – a group that included linebacker Kyle Van Noy. Keionta Davis was also part of that group, which included the usual suspects like Trey Flowers, Deatrich Wise, Derek Rivers, and Adrian Clayborn.
The Patriots get back to work on Thursday with a chance to have perfect attendance for a second straight day. The first official injury report of the season is due out on Wednesday afternoon; that will be everyone’s first indication of who, if any, was limited in practice and what exactly they’re dealing with.
— By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.