Patriots free agent signing returns to practice after opening on NFI
Antonio Gibson was back on the field for Patriots practice on Thursday, indicating he’s been activated from NFI.
Just one day into training camp practices, the New England Patriots are getting healthier. On Thursday, one of their top free agent signings returned to practice after missing Day 1.
Running back Antonio Gibson was on the field and in uniform for Thursday’s Patriots practice – the second of camp. Gibson had opened camp on the non-football injury (NFI) list for undisclosed reasons. His presence at practice indicates the team has cleared and activated him.
Asked about Gibson’s status prior to Wednesday’s practice, head coach Jerod Mayo downplayed the situation. “No concern at all,” Mayo said. “He’s on the active roster still. When he’s ready to go, he’ll be out here.

After stretching with the team, Gibson went to a side field which is typically the case for players that are returning from an injury. That usually means a player is limited, and could be a sign that he is still ramping things up.
Getting Gibson back early, even if he is just easing into things, is good news for a team working to install a new running game in this camp. Gibson is expected to be the spell back to Rhamondre Stevenson, helping the team keep him fresh while still being able to make an impact.
With Gibson expected to be activated, the Patriots have five players remaining on reserve lists – all on PUP. That group is made up of wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, offensive linemen Cole Strange and Jake Andrews, linebacker Sione Takitaki, and rookie running back Terrell Jennings. All four are dealing with injuries and missed time in the spring.