Patriots noticeably shorthanded at first practice since Bills game

The Patriots returned to the practice field on Tuesday morning after their 'mini-bye' - the extra half a week a team gets off after a Thursday night game. While most of the team was on the field, there were some notable exceptions absent during the stretching portion of practice open to the media.

Among those not spotted were tackle Trent Brown and safety Jabrill Peppers. Both players were on the injury report last week due to illnesses.

Running back Damien Harris, wide receiver Jakobi Meyers, tackle Isaiah Wynn, and cornerback Jalen Mills also weren't spotted on Tuesday. They were all on the injury report last week as well dealing with football-related injuries - Harris was listed with a thigh injury, Meyers a shoulder injury, Wynn a foot injury, and Mills with a groin injury.

In addition to those six players who appeared on the injury report last week, guard Michael Onwenu was the seventh player from the active roster spotted at Tuesday's practice. Quarterback Garrett Gilbert and linebacker Jamie Collins, both on the practice squad, also weren't present.

Because the Patriots don't play until Monday night, the first injury report of the week won't come until late Thursday afternoon. That will offer more clarity on the situations of these players. The team's next practice is Thursday morning.

Alex Barth is a writer and 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. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.