Although tardy to a team meeting, LB Adalius Thomasmade it clear the inclement weather was the reason for being late according to the Boston Globe. "I don’t want people to think...it was put out there like I just didn’t show up and didn’t have a reason, and nobody knew. That's not true. That's not the case at all. I was trying to be a professional," said Thomas. Thomas, WR Randy Moss, LB/DL Derrick Burgess, and LB Gary Guytonwere all late to an 8 a.m. meeting on Wednesday and were consequently sent home. Thomas has not apologized for the incident.

The* Boston Herald *reports QB Tom Bradymissed his second consecutive practice yesterday )due to a rib injury. This adds to a growing list of injuries to Brady, which includes a shoulder and right ring finger injury. Brady said of his finger that it was "hanging in there."

Benjamin Watson and Chris Bakerhave totaled only three catches in the Patriots' last three games according to a story by the Providence Journal. The story adds the two tight ends have been blocking more due to the absence of Matt Lightand with Nick Kaczurstruggling on the right side. "In the passing game, it just depends on what the coverage is and how the route is designed and where the ball is going based on that, and of course, who's open," Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said.

WR Wes Welkerwas awarded a spot on the USAF’s “All-Fundamentals” team yesterday at Gillette Stadium. The award is given to "26 players across the NFL who exhibit outstanding football fundamentals that should be emulated by young players" according to the Sun Chronicle. Welker and Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald were selected as the two receivers to win the award. Welker will donate the $1,500 equipment grant he received towards youth football in his hometown of Oklahoma City.

The Patriots are currently in fourth place in the AFC standings. They lead AFC East by one game over the Jets and Dolphins. For the complete AFC standings, read* ESPN's* rundown including wild-card implications.