Earlier today, the New England Patriots held their second practice of the week in preparation for their upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins. Once more, the team had perfect practice participation (at least when it comes to the active 53-man roster, as practice squad offensive tackle Cole Croston was not out on the field during the media portion). The injury list is therefore a rather short one — at least for the Patriots.
Did not participate
Dolphins: OC Jake Brendel (calf), CB Xavien Howard (knee)
Arguably the biggest name on Miami’s injury report altogether is cornerback Xavien Howard. The team’s best defensive back missed his second straight practice due to a knee injury as it becomes ever more likely that he will not play on Sunday. This would certainly help the Patriots, especially considering that Howard had two interceptions in the two teams’ first meeting.
Limited participation
Patriots: TE Dwayne Allen (knee), SS Patrick Chung (shoulder)
Dolphins: WR Danny Amendola (knee), RB Kenyan Drake (shoulder), WR DeVante Parker (shoulder), OC Travis Swanson (ankle)
While blocking tight end Dwayne Allen and starting strong safety Patrick Chung are still limited, New England removed two player from its injury report: quarterback Tom Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski were full participants after being listed as limited yesterday because of knee and ankle/back issues, respectively. There was little doubt when it comes about the availability of the two superstars, though, and today’s move confirms this.
Full participation
Dolphins: OT Ja’Wuan James (knee), FS Reshad Jones (knee), OG Ted Larsen (neck), CB Bobby McCain (knee), QB Ryan Tannehill (right shoulder), OT Laremy Tunsil (knee), CB Cornell Armstrong (knee), DE Cameron Wake (not injury related)
As noted above, Brady and Gronkowski were removed off the report and note even listed as full participants. Meanwhile in Miami, defensive edge Cameron Wake returned to practice today in full capacity. Just like his seven teammates joining him with this designation, he will be good to go on Sunday.