Patriots News: Rex Burkhead gets back onto practice field
Recent New England Patriots news is positive in regards to running back Rex Burkhead, who returned to the practice field this weekend.
There has been plenty of New England Patriots news in recent weeks. With training camp ending and the preseason kicking into high gear, there has been plenty to discuss. One of the biggest topics of discussion for the Patriots has been injuries.
New England has been hit hard by injuries thus far this offseason. Two wide receivers, Jordan Matthews and Malcolm Mitchell, were released because of injury concerns. Another wide receiver, Kenny Britt, is playing catchup as he battled an injury throughout the offseason.
Offensive lineman, and 2018 first round pick, Isaiah Wynn, has been lost for the season with a torn Achilles. Wynn was battling for the starting left tackle spot and was expected to provide depth across the offensive line.
The backfield is where a lot of people worried about injuries. Sony Michel, the second first-round pick for New England, and Wynn’s college teammate underwent a knee procedure early in August has been sidelined since. However, Patriots news regarding fellow running back, Rex Burkhead, has been more positive.
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Burkhead has been sidelined about two weeks with an undisclosed injury. It was revealed last week that Burkhead was dealing with a slight tear in his knee. It was considered minor, and that was confirmed, as Burkhead finally returned to the practice field.
Burkhead returned to the practice field on Sunday, which was excellent news for New England. Burkhead re-signed this offseason, agreeing to a three-year, $9.75 million deal. He was expected to take over as the Patriots’ lead back this season.
However, that plan looked to be in danger as Burkhead missed the first two preseason games and multiple practices. Being in his second season with the team, Burkhead should be able to catch up rather quickly. The injuries are a concern, however, as he missed six games last season as well.
With Burkhead returning to practice, it is good news for his Week 1 status. Burkhead should be available by then. Michel’s status for Week 1 is up in the air still, so Burkhead could have a big role to begin the season.
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With Burkhead back in the fold, attention will once again shift to the running backs near the end of the depth chart. Mike Gillislee and Jeremy Hill are battling it out for one spot. Undrafted rookie Ralph Webb has performed well but faces an uphill battle to make the final 53-man roster as well.