Logan Mankins is back

New England Patriots star left guard Logan Mankins was activated from the PUP list yesterday after speculation that a return could happen. The Patriots offensive line struggled in the preseason opener without Mankins, Sebastian Vollmer, and Brian Waters, but no updates have been given on the latter two veteran offensive linemen.

Having Mankins back is terrific news, as he is a leader and a tremendous player for the team. The second best guard in the NFL behind Carl Nicks, Mankins is probably a better pass protector than the new Tampa Bay Buccaneers left guard. He’s also a more important voice to his team, and Mankins is one of the toughest players in the league.

Every Patriots fan will agree with that last statement, and the true extent of his toughness was displayed last season. He played through both MCL and ACL (right knee) injuries, even though we didn’t know at the time if he had a torn ACL during the playoffs. He did, and Mankins played through it simply because he felt alright and could run. Can you believe this? He was playing through a torn ACL and still played fine. In fact, the only time he missed a game due to injury was in Week 17  after spraining his MCL against the Miami Dolphins (left knee) playing in place of Matt Light.

The toughness that Logan Mankins displays game-in and game-out is absolutely insane, and it’s remarkable to think that the only thing to have slowed him down in his career is an MCL injury. I mean, that’s not your everyday stinger.

It’s great to have him back after rehabbing so hard, and he will be available for practice in two days due to the NFL’s policy on players returning from the PUP list.

Just thought I would leave you with this awesome quote from Mankins, “I don’t know. Put a brace on, tape an aspirin to it and go.”

Yeah, it’s great to have him back.

You can follow Joe Soriano on Twitter @SorianoJoe.