Jerod Mayo, Vince Wilfork Back at Practice for Patriots

It looks like the Patriots will able to breathe a sigh of relief over the next few weeks when it comes to their defense. Linebacker Jerod Mayo and nose tackle Vince Wilfork were both present for the media portion of practice at Gillette Stadium on Friday.

Mayo, who has been out since he sprained the MCL in his right knee in Week 1, was initially said to be out for at least six weeks, but a source told The Boston Globe that the timetable was not as bad as reported. An exact return for Mayo has yet to be announced.

Wilfork sprained his ankle in Sunday's win over the Falcons and did not participate in practice on Wednesday or Thursday.