There was one extremely noticeable absence when the New England Patriots took the practice field on Wednesday and that absence was quarterback Tom Brady. After New England's practice, Patriots coach Bill Belichick didn't elaborate on why Brady wasn't there, but that was expected because Belichick never elaborates on player absences.
Officially, Brady was listed on the Partriots injury report as having an illness and a right shoulder issue. According to ESPN.com, Brady's illness is a minor one, but he's expected to be 'ready for Sunday.'
Brady was battling a cold last week, something he talked about on Jan. 7, "I'll live. I'll be there," Brady said of playing against the Colts.
The right shoulder is likely a non-issue . As the Boston Herald points out, Brady was listed on the Patriots injury report with a right shoulder problem every week of the regular season from 2004-10.
With Brady out, backup quarterback Ryan Mallett took the first-team snaps. Mallett didn't bite when he was asked about Brady's health, "You'd have to ask coach," Mallett said. "I'm just doing what I'm told, doing my job."
Long snapper Danny Aiken was the only other player besides Brady to miss practice on Wednesday. Patriots punter Ryan Allen, who injured his shoulder against the Colts, was a limited participant in practice, but is expected to play on Sunday against Denver.
Wide receiver Aaron Dobson, who missed the Indianapolis game with a foot injury, was also a limited participant in practice.