The Patriots were back in full pads at Thursday’s practice and they had every player available on the field except for one.
Yes, Gordie Gronkowski’s favorite player missed the session with his ankle injury.
In New York, three of the team’s seven injured players returned to practice. Center David Baas (abdomen/neck), linebacker Chase Blackburn (calf) and running Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) were all back on the field, according to Ralph Vacchiano of the New York Daily News.
Four Giants rested again: Cornerback Will Blackmon (knee), wideout Hakeem Nicks (shoulder), cornerback Corey Webster (hamstring) and linebacker Jacquian Williams (foot).
Coach Tom Coughlin indicated those four players only missed work for precautionary reasons. They are expected to practice next week and play on Super Bowl Sunday.
There are less injury questions for this Super Bowl than most. Gronkowski is the main concern, and it’s already been widely reported that he’ll play.