The New England Patriots may enjoy a weekend off as the team is currently on its bye but that does not mean that it is vacation time for the players or coaches. After all, the Patriots are right in the middle of the race for playoff seeding and improving for the second half of the regular season is imperative.
Consequently, the team hit the practice fields behind Gillette Stadium today for the final time before they return to their regular schedule next week. Practice was held in shorts and shells as the session had more of a walkthrough character.
Attendance was good although one notable player was not spotted: wide receiver Chris Hogan was absent from the session because, via Jeff Howe, he is sick:
Chris Hogan is sick so the team told him to stay home for the day. Not an issue.
Hogan was the lone absentee. Running back Dion Lewis, whom the team has to activate off the physically unable to perform list in the upcoming weeks, was present as was rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett. Brissett, who has been placed on injured reserve with a thumb injury and is a candidate to return to the active roster, did not partake in the session but was wearing a jersey (but neither pads nor helmet).
Also notable was seeing a new offensive player donning number 82 practicing with the team. He worked out with the tight ends and might have been added to either the practice squad (which currently holds the maximum of 10 players) or the active roster, where the Patriots have one open spot since trading Jamie Collins.
As soon as we find out who the mystery tight end is and what his status with the team is, we will let you know.