New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, center, speaks to his team during a team practice Wednesday in Foxboro. Mark Stockwell/Boston Herald
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, center, speaks to his team during a team practice Wednesday in Foxboro. Mark Stockwell/Boston Herald
Andrew Callahan
Andrew Callahan
FOXBORO — The Patriots were down five starters at Wednesday’s practice, their first this week as they continue to prepare for Sunday’s home showdown against Green Bay.
Wide receiver A.J. Brown, outside linebacker Dre’Mont Jones, running back TreVeyon Henderson, outside linebacker Gabe Jacas, right tackle Morgan Moses, tight end Hunter Henry and defensive tackle Christian Barmore were all absent.
All of them are dealing with known ailments, from Brown (knee) to Jones (shoulder), Jacas (knee), Henderson (illness), Moses (foot), Henry (foot) and Barmore (illness). Henry left last weekend’s win over the Dolphins in the first half and did not return. Jacas hurt his knee in the second half.
As expected, wide receiver Mack Hollins returned to the field. Hollins and offensive lineman Greg Van Roten both made their first appearances at practice since being placed on injured reserve last month, moves that opened their respective 21-day windows for activation.
Brown and Henderson have now missed three straight practices. Barmore is newly absent with an illness. It’s unknown how long he will be absent.
The Patriots will release their first injury report of the week Wednesday evening.
Sunday’s kickoff against the Packers is set for 4:25 p.m.
veterans day
veterans day