The Patriots never revealed why linebacker Jerod Mayo missed last week’s joint practices with the Eagles or the game against Philadelphia on Friday night, but it doesn’t appear to be anything with long-lasting ramifications for their defense.
ESPNBoston.com reports that Mayo was back at practice on Monday and took part in the team’s full-pads practice. Mayo missed the final 10 games of last season after tearing his pectoral muscle, but was a full participant in the team’s OTAs and at camp before missing last week’s work.
The Patriots got positive developments with other injured players on Monday as well. Tight end Michael Hoomanawanui and center Bryan Stork, both of whom have been out since late July with undisclosed injuries, were also back on the field as the team moves toward their third preseason game of the summer. In addition, rookie wide receiver Jeremy Gallon has been activated from the PUP list and practiced for the first time since the start of camp.
Throw in the first practices for newly acquired defensive linemen Jerel Worthy and Ben Bass and the Pats roster looks quite a bit fuller on Monday afternoon.
