2 Patriots players eligible to return from IR/PUP not seen at Wednesday's practice

After losing two integral parts of the defense in Sunday's blowout loss to the Cowboys, the Patriots were fortunate to have three players eligible to return from injured reserve/physically unable to participate list on Wednesday.

It is the first time we've seen Cody Davis, Trey Flowers, and Riley Reiff participate in practice this season, and now they'll have 15 days to be activated to the 53-man roster.

But one noteworthy thing about the list of players set to return was that cornerback Jack Jones and wide receiver Tyquan Thronton were still missing. Both players were placed on IR before the season and have missed the four games needed before returning.

Considering the state the offense and secondary are in right now, it would be significant if they could return to the field as soon as possible.

When asked about the possibility of either player returning to practice today, Bill Belichick wouldn't reveal their specific statuses. Hopefully, that's not an indication of where they are in the recovery from injuries because the team certainly does not need to deal with even more names on that list.

Adding J.C. Jackson will help bridge the gap with Christian Gonzalez done for the year, and whenever Jonathan Jones can return, his presence will be significant as well. But with the secondary proving thin against the Cowboys on Sunday, Jack Jones being back in the lineup would lessen the concerns dramatically, especially after losing a lockdown guy like Gonzalez was panning out to be already.

The return of Reiff is a much-needed addition, as well. Although we haven't seen him in a real game yet in New England, the offensive line has been the leading cause for most of the issues the offense has dealt with so far, especially at right tackle. If he can help improve that even slightly, the Patriots will be in better hands because of it.