FOXBORO — Before Friday’s training camp scrimmage, head coach Mike Vrabel provided updates on a handful of injured Patriots.
Starting left tackle Will Campbell, who began wearing a brace on his left arm earlier this week, should be “ready to go after the weekend,” per Vrabel. Second-year pro Marcus Bryant has subbed in for Campbell with the first-team offense.
No. 2 cornerback Carlton Davis (hamstring) faces a longer recovery timeline. He will remain sidelined “probably until the end of next week,” Vrabel said. Don’t expect to see Davis on the field for next Tuesday’s joint practice with the Colts or next Thursday’s preseason opener against Indianapolis at Gillette Stadium.
Vrabel said Davis has been “staying engaged” and working individually with defensive assistant Kevin Richardson.
“This is why you love to develop young coaches on your staff,” Vrabel said. “So let’s say, for example, (cornerbacks coach) Justin (Hamilton) is meeting with the corners in the morning as they get ready for practice, and we know the CD is not going to be up for that day of practice. Kevin Richardson can take them into the mobile classroom and go through a specific script and plays and cater to exactly the things that CD needs so that he can stay engaged while he’s not in.
“I’ve always told you it’s hard to be out and dealing with something (when) new installation is going in, but you’re not getting a rep it physically. So we try to just keep him engaged, and he is.”
Davis has not practiced since July 28. Charles Woods has been the next man up in his absence, repping with the top defense opposite Christian Gonzalez, but he also was not present Friday.
Safety Brenden Schooler has been on the non-football injury list since the start of training camp with an undisclosed ailment. Vrabel said the team is taking a cautious approach with its special teams ace.
“I think it’s hard to tell (when he’ll return),” Vrabel said. “I think it’s one that we just want to be very cautious with. He’s got such a specific, unique role. Yes, he wants to be involved in defense and use those reps to improve what his No. 1 role is on our football team, which is to be an elite special teams player, which he did last year. … Until he’s back, I don’t think there’s any real reason to push that or force that issue.
“We make sure that he’s healthy. He’s still a large part of what we want to do and what we’re planning on doing. I just don’t think there’s any reason to rush him back right now until he’s as close to 100% as possible.”
Wide receiver Romeo Doubs returned Friday after missing the previous two practices. Vrabel said the veteran wideout’s absence was not injury-related.
“It was a personal thing,” Vrabel said. “I don’t know if he wants to address it. It’s all very positive. But he’s back and ready to work.”