Patriots WR N’Keal Harry officially back at practice; WR Josh Gordon, DL Michael Bennett missing
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
FOXBORO, Mass. — The big news from Patriots practice on Tuesday was that rookie wide receiver N’Keal Harry was present, meaning he’s officially designated to return from injured reserve and is likely participating in full. The Patriots have 21 days to either activate Harry or keep him on IR, which would end his season.
There’s plenty more to unpack from Tuesday at the practice fields by Gillette Stadium.
Offense
— Josh Gordon was the only receiver missing from practice. He left last Thursday’s game with a knee injury, but reportedly avoided something major.
— Phillip Dorsett returned after missing all of last week with a hamstring injury. It’s possible he could have played against the Giants if not on a short week. He looked healthy in individual drills and appears on track to return next Monday at the Jets.
— There was a mystery receiver wearing No. 17. The number has felt like a kiss of death for wideouts, as the last one to wear it on the active roster was Antonio Brown. Failed Patriots draft picks like Aaron Dobson and Chad Jackson also wore No. 17.
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— At tight end, the newly re-signed Ben Watson was spotted in his No. 84. Matt LaCosse, however, was absent. He’s reportedly dealing with an MCL sprain and will have to miss at least a few weeks.
— Quarterback Cody Kessler was missing. It’s possible he’s been released in order to create an open roster spot for new or returning players.
— Tight end Eric Tomlinson was present and wearing No. 82. Jason Vander Laan previously wore the number, so it looks like he’s also been released.
— There was a new offensive lineman wearing No. 67, previously worn by Dan Skipper. Lot of roster moves coming in the next couple of days.
Defense
— Defensive lineman Michael Bennett was not spotted during the media availability portion of practice. Given Bennett’s decreasing playing time (season-low 11 defensive snaps against the Giants, per Pro Football Reference), this will invite all kinds of speculation. It’s possible that he was simply limited or got something of a maintenance day.
— Linebacker Dont’a Hightower and safety Patrick Chung were both present. They each had to leave last Thursday’s game with injuries. Hightower has been dealing with a shoulder issue, while Chung missed Week 5 with a heel injury and left on Thursday due to a chest injury.
More practice reporting coming later this week.
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 [email protected].