Rookie QB Jacoby Brissett wasn't on the field for Friday's practice, and it's unclear when he might be again. According to media reports (The Boston Globe, then WEEI.com), Brissett underwent surgery on his right (throwing) thumb, which he injured early in the second half of New England's Week 3 win over Houston.
As of Friday, New England had 54 players on its active roster, including quarterback Tom Brady and defensive end Rob Ninkovich. Both were given exemptions this week, their first since coming off four-game NFL suspensions.
Assuming both players are activated in time for Sunday's game at Cleveland, one roster spot would need to be freed up to get the Patriots in compliance with the 53-man limit. Brissett could be that one.
The initial reports suggested that the Patriots were waiting for backup QB Jimmy Garoppolo's right (throwing) shoulder, injured in Week 2, to be sufficiently healed before they went ahead with Brissett's surgery. It would appear that this is now the case.
Elsewhere at practice, WR Julian Edelman took part, at least on a limited basis, after being added to Thursday's injury report with a foot issue. However, after yesterday promising reporters he'd speak to them on Friday, Edelman was nowhere to be found after today's practice. The two incidents are likely related.
Meanwhile, right tackle Marcus Cannon suited up again after being held out of Thursday's action with a calf ailment that has limited his participation at practice since last week. Cannon and the rest of the Patriots, who depart for Cleveland on Saturday, spent a portion of Friday afternoon packing for the trip to Ohio.
