NESN

Patriots’ Julian Edelman Not Cleared to Play Against Bengals

FOXBORO, Mass. — Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman won’t play Sunday against the Bengals due to a foot injury. Edelman was working out on the field at about 10:15 a.m. with a few members of the medical staff, but it appears that he wasn’t cleared to play.

Running back Laurence Maroney (thigh), cornerback Terrence Wheatley (foot), offensive lineman Nick Kaczur (back), defensive lineman Brandon Deaderick (toe), wide receiver Taylor Price, linebacker Dane Fletcher and tackle Steve Maneri were also on the eight-member inactive list. Price, Fletcher and Maneri were not on the injury report this week.

Offensive lineman Quinn Ojinnaka, who is serving his league-mandated one-game suspension, also will not play.

Edelman missed three weeks of practice before returning on a limited basis Thursday and Friday. With Wes Welker back in the lineup, it’s possible the Patriots were taking a more conservative approach with Edelman, who plays a similar role. Welker was warming up Sunday morning with a brace on his left knee.

Rookie outside linebacker Jermaine Cunningham, who was a second-round pick in April’s draft, has overcome his ankle injury and will play against the Bengals. Cunningham missed the entire preseason and will be needed to boost the Patriots’ pass rush.

Rookie tight end Aaron Hernandez (right knee) and cornerback Kyle Arrington (groin) will also play after missing the last two preseason games.