Patriots Practice Report: Julian Edelman Makes Surprise Return From Foot Injury

FOXBORO, Mass. — New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman made his shocking return to practice Friday.

Edelman, who broke his left foot less than a month ago in the Patriots’ 27-26 Week 10 win over the New York Giants, was spotted warming up with teammates before the team’s last session of the week. Edelman didn’t have a brace on his foot, though he appeared to be jogging gingerly.

The Patriots had perfect practice attendance. Tight end Rob Gronkowski made his return to the practice field Thursday.

Edelman isn’t expected to play Sunday against the Houston Texans, but he returned to practice sooner than expected. Edelman’s initial timeline had him returning for the playoffs.

The Patriots’ offense has struggled without Edelman.

As context, Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant also had a Jones fracture in his foot. He began conditioning a month after his injury but didn’t return to practice for six weeks.

Edelman's recovery timetable compared to Dez Bryant's. Bryant also had Jones fracture, played 6 weeks post-injury pic.twitter.com/UqAGtomAcC

— Kevin Duffy (@KevinRDuffy) December 11, 2015