The New England Patriots’ bye week is officially over. After enjoying four days off following the only practice of the last week, the team returned to the fields behind Gillette Stadium today to kick off its preparations for the upcoming game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Once again, participation was very good but not perfect: safety Patrick Chung was not spotted by the reporters during the open portion at the beginning of practice.
Chung was absent for last Wednesday’s session as well, even though he did not suffer any reported injury during the Week 9 game against the Baltimore Ravens. However, the 32-year-old was listed as questionable on the injury report leading up to the game because of heel and chest injuries. The team’s starting strong safety also was on the field for only 27 of New England’s 70 defensive snaps against the Ravens — a comparatively low number.
Meanwhile, tight end Benjamin Watson returned to practice after being absent last week. Watson played all 67 of the team’s offensive snaps last Sunday night in Baltimore, so he could have just been given a day off heading into the bye. The first injury report of the week, however, will create a clear picture when it comes to his status — and to Chung’s as well, of course. As usual, the Patriots will release it on Wednesday afternoon.