Linebacker Chase Winovich apparently returns off Patriots’ physically unable to perform list

The New England Patriots returned to the practice fields behind Gillette Stadium on Sunday to hold their first session following the preseason opener versus the Washington Football. Among the players spotted also was linebacker Chase Winovich, indicating that he has been removed from the physically unable to perform list.

Dealing with an undisclosed injury, Winovich started training camp on PUP and was absent during the Patriots’ first twelve practices of the summer as well as the game against Washington on Thursday. He was periodically spotted, though, working out with the rehabilitation group on the lower practice fields.

Now, the third-year man is officially back. Winovich’s return will help bolster an edge linebacker position that also features offseason acquisitions Matthew Judon, Kyle Van Noy and Ronnie Perkins, as well as second-year men Josh Uche and Anfernee Jennings.

With Winovich off PUP, only four players remain on the list: cornerback Stephon Gilmore as well as quarterback Jarrett Stidham, defensive tackle Byron Cowart, and linebacker Terez Hall. The Patriots also have two players each on the non-football injury list (LB Cameron McGrone, S Joshuah Bledsoe) and injured reserve (LB Raekwon McMillan, TE Dalton Keene).

While it remains to be seen how big of a workload Winovich will get on Sunday and heading into the second week of preseason, his return is a positive sign with the Patriots set to travel to Philadelphia for joint practices with the Eagles later today.