The Patriots were back outside for practice on a chilly Friday with snow having been removed from their practice fields.
Of note, DE Chandler Jones (hip) continues to take part, at least on a limited basis this week. The past three days have been his first practice activity since injuring himself in Week 7 against the Jets.
Also on the field in pads was veteran DL Sealver Siliga (foot), who is eligible to come off the IR/designated to return list. Rookie OL Cameron Fleming (left ankle) and rookie DL Dominique Easley (right knee) were suited up as well. Both of them were out all of last week and did not play versus Detroit this past Sunday.
The only player not spotted Friday was veteran LB Chris White. He appeared on the injury report on Thanksgiving with an ankle injury.
Don and out
It wasn't long ago that head coach Bill Belichick was singing the praises of special teamer Don Jones. On Thanksgiving, however, the Patriots send Jones packing.
Friday, Belichick was asked about the curious transaction.
"I think [Jones] definitely has value. I think there are a lot of players on our team that do have value. They can't all be on the team. We have to pick the ones that we think have the most value for the team for that point in time. And it changes over the course of the year, just like it does for every other team."
Could Jones be a candidate for the practice squad if he clears waivers?
"Yeah, that would be a possibility," said Belichick.
Road trip
On this, the busiest travel weekend of the year in the U.S., Patriots players were packing up for an extended trip themselves. The team will fly out to Wisconsin Saturday, then head straight to California after the Packers game.
New England will practice the entire week in the San Diego area in preparation for the following Sunday night showdown with the Chargers.
