Tom Brady Injury Update: MRI Negative, QB 'Likely to Practice' Thursday

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady will likely practice Thursday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Schefter said the MRI on Brady's knee came back negative:

Patriots will re-examine Tom Brady in the morning, but one source said the quarterback is likely to practice Thursday.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 14, 2013

Schefter also tweeted that removing Brady from practice Wednesday was just a precaution.

Brady went down during Wednesday's practice clutching his left knee. He walked off the field on his own power, returned a few plays later, but soon went back to the sideline for the rest of practice.

Fortunately, it looks like Brady will be fine and back behind center Thursday. However, the Patriots -- nor any team in the NFL -- can't be too cautious with a 36-year-old franchise quarterback. With Week 2 of the preseason in progress, there is no reason to rush Brady back on the field. Even if he doesn't play Friday night against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Brady and the Patriots won't miss a step.

Here's more good news: Ryan Mallett and Tim Tebow are still sitting on the bench.