By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
FOXBORO, Mass. -- The Patriots got wide receiver Julian Edelman back at practice on Thursday. But swap him out for starting left tackle Isaiah Wynn, who was missing from the media availability portion of practice.
More will be known about Wynn's status when the second injury report of the week comes out on Thursday. Wynn and several others missed practice two weeks ago after a flu bug swept through the Patriots' locker room.
Edelman, however, returned after missing Wednesday's practice due to what Jeff Howe of The Athletic reported as "load management". He appeared on Wednesday's injury report with a knee injury, in addition to an existing shoulder injury. Edelman played through a chest issue earlier in the season, as well.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor wasn't willing to speak on the taping controversy involving the Patriots and Bengals, offering some form of "no comment" several times. But he was willing to speak about Edelman and the problems he presents to the Bengals.
"He's been a problem for a long time," said Taylor. "He's a great separator. He and Tom [Brady] obviously have great chemistry. They're on the same page and know how to attack defenses. So, he's been one of the premier receivers in this league for a long time and someone you certainly have to be aware of."
Losing Wynn again, after bringing him off injured reserve in late October, would be a blow to the Patriots offense, which can use all the help it can get in every area after averaging 17.6 points over the last five games. Wynn has been hit-or-miss as a blocker since returning, but still represents an upgrade over journeyman Marshall Newhouse.
Having Edelman as healthy as possible, however, is paramount. So it's certainly a good sign that he was able to return after missing just one practice.
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].