Today, the New England Patriots held another practice session as they prepare for their first divisional game of the season. On Sunday, New England will host the Miami Dolphins – and neither team projects to be at full physical strength.
A look at today’s practice report shows that at least one key member of the team appears to be heading towards inactivity:
LB Dont’a Hightower (Knee): DNP
CB Malcolm Butler (Ankle): LP
OT Marcus Cannon (Knee): LP
OG Jonathan Cooper (Foot): LP
DE Trey Flowers (Shoulder): LP
TE Rob Gronkowski (Hamstring): LP
OG Shaq Mason (Hand): LP
LB Shea McClellin (Shoulder): LP
CB Eric Rowe (Ankle): LP
OT Nate Solder (Hamstring): LP
WR Chris Hogan (Shoulder): FP
For the second straight day, Hightower was a no-show at practice. Therefore, even if he returns tomorrow, seeing him miss Sunday’s game would not be a surprise. After all, while his injury did not appear to be major when he first suffered it against the Arizona Cardinals, there is no need to force anything and rush him back.
Hightower’s status did not change and so did most of the practice report. Only one status looks different today than it did yesterday and that is the addition of cornerback Eric Rowe. The 23-year old was a full participant yesterday but was unable to practice fully during today’s full-pads session.