All-Pro LG Logan Mankins took his first reps of contact on his way back from ACL surgery with one snap in one-on-ones and three in two-on-twos. Mankins obviously hasn’t missed many weight-room sessions because most of his effectiveness came from brute strength. Mankins is far from season-ready -- his feet looked really heavy and he showed no alertness to stunts -- but his return was a welcomed sight.
Offense sharper: The sloppy Patriots' offense was buoyed by the return of TEs Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez, and WR Brandon Lloyd. QB Tom Brady went 14 for 19 with two drops and two sacks during 11-on-11 periods. Brady capped his first drive with a touchdown to Hernandez against Dont’a Hightower. Later Brady hooked up with old reliable Deion Branch for a score.
Dropping it: The offense would be even better if the receivers could hang onto the ball. For the third straight practice, there were at least four drops. Donte' Stallworth, who had three by himself on Tuesday, found his playing time severely cut on Wednesday.
Vereen making a move: Shane Vereen, who was the most impressive back against the Saints, saw his playing time with the first team jump on Wednesday, and he seemed to capitalize on it. Vereen was likely getting time because Stevan Ridley fumbled in the previous practice. Two fumbles got Ridley sent to the bench late last season.
Pass coverage: The coverage continues to be much improved in the secondary, where Sterling Moore split time with Ras-I Dowling as the nickel cornerback. Safety Tavon Wilson had a great pass breakup when Brady tried to find Gronkowski in the end zone.
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