Patriots Center Bryan Stork Will Play Against the Steelers

Consider the New England Patriots being safe. They're trying to protect their assets. Center Bryan Stork didn't play against the Carolina Panthers for the same reason that tight end Rob Gronkowski and wide receiver Julian Edelman sat out.

Because we're on to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

According to the Boston Herald's Jeff Howe, Stork is ready now, and has been ready for a while, but the Patriots don't want to risk their starting center.

Bryan Stork cleared his concussion protocol a while ago, could practice today if needed. He'll be playing the Steelers, I'm told.

— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) September 1, 2015

Concussions are serious injuries and Stork was sidelined with one last season and each subsequent concussion is worse and worse. There is no need to put Stork in unnecessary contact, even though additional repetitions with rookies Shaq Mason and Tre Jackson would be beneficial to the offense. Ensuring Stork's health is paramount for this team and for his life.

With Stork "good to go", the Patriots will have their first glimpse of their offensive line against the Steelers and likely not a moment before. Let's root for his continued health for the rest of his life.