New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez returned to practice today, according to several media outlets.
 Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez returned to practice today for the first time since Sept. 16 against the Arizona Cardinals. (FILE:USPresswire) |
Hernandez, whose missed the last two games, attended his first practice since injuring his ankle Sept. 16 against the Arizona Cardinals.
Not only did Hernandez return, however, both tight ends Rob Gronkowski - listed with a hip injury - and Michael Hoomanawanui - listed with a concussion - returned to practice as well.
The three tight ends returning is certainly good news after the Pats only had two practice earlier this week in Daniel Fells and Alex Silvestro.
Cornerback Ras-I Dowling, safety Steve Gregory and wide receiver Julian Edelman were absent.
Although Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald reports Dowling was with his family Thursday after the death of his grandmother.
Quick Thought:
The Pats seem to be in good shape on the health front and Hernandez's return to practice is definitely encouraging. Despite returning to practice today, I still believe Hernandez will not play this Sunday, but I think there is a good possibility he plays in Seattle next week.
My guess is supported by NFL Network and NFL.com's Albert Breer who reported Thursday that Hernandez is a virtual certainty to miss Sunday's game vs Denver, but might be available for the team in week 6. For that, however, only time will tell.
For Patriots updates in an instant, follow me on Twitter:@PatriotsHaven!
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