Patriots running back Sony Michel returns to practice, has been removed off the PUP list

Update 8/26/2020: Patriots running back Sony Michel returns to practice, has been removed off the PUP list

While Michel’s status was unclear early during Wednesday’s practice — he was in uniform to start the session but sat out early drills — his participation during later work confirmed the belief from earlier today: the third-year running back has been removed off the Patriots’ physically unable to perform list (PUP) and is again a regular participant in training camp.

Original story 8/26/2020: Patriots running back Sony Michel returns to practice, seems to have been removed off the PUP list

The New England Patriots’ received a serious infusion of talent before their training camp practice on Wednesday was even kicked off: a total of six players returned after missing at least yesterday’s session. That group also included running back Sony Michel, who was in full uniform for the first time all summer after having started camp on the Patriots’ physically unable to perform list (PUP). His return is an indication that he is now off the list.

This situation is no unfamiliar one for Michel.

Coming off a solid rookie season and impressive three-game postseason stretch, he was forced to sit out parts of New England’s offseason preparation last year after undergoing a knee arthroscopy — one that forced him to miss all of mandatory minicamp and to open camp on the PUP list as well. He eventually returned to the practice fields in late July, though, while gradually increasing his workload and eventually appearing in all 17 of the Patriots’ games during the 2019 season.

Along the way, Michel carried the football 247 times during the regular season while gaining 912 yards and finding the end zone seven times. He also added 61 more yards on 14 carries during the Patriots’ lone playoff contest. Furthermore, the former first-round draft pick registered 103 yards on 14 combined receptions and lost one of his two fumbles over the course of the season.

Considering that the 25-year-old is projected to again play an integral role in the Patriots’ offensive attack as a candidate for its lead back role, this is good news for both the team and the third-year veteran. While New England will likely play it safe with him for the time being, simply seeing Michel back on the field is a positive sign when it comes to his rehabilitation process from offseason foot surgery.

If Michel has indeed been removed off PUP — his participation level during practice will determine his status — the Patriots will have only two players remaining on injury-related reserve lists:

• LB Brandon King (Reserve/PUP)
• RB Lamar Miller (Active/PUP)

The other players to return to practice on Wednesday are wide receivers Julian Edelman, Devin Ross and Jeff Thomas, as well as offensive tackle Yodny Cajuste and safety Adrian Phillips.