FOXBORO, Mass. — The Patriots concluded their first of three practices with the Saints on Tuesday morning and it was a spirited session for both sides that worked together for a little more than half of the session, which lasted about an hour and 45 minutes.
Patriots cornerback Leigh Bodden, linebacker Gary Guyton, wide receiver Matthew Slater, wide receiver Torry Holt, defensive lineman Ron Brace and cornerback Terrence Johnson did not participate in practice but watched from the sideline. It's the first time in more than a week that Guyton and Slater have been spotted near the field.
Slater, according to sources, has a calf injury that is not believed to be serious.
Missing entirely were defensive lineman Ty Warren, offensive lineman Nick Kaczur, safety Bret Lockett, left guard Logan Mankins, outside linebacker Derrick Burgess and safety Josh Barrett.
Wide receiver Wes Welker took part in the full session and even participated in 11-on-11 drills against the Saints defense, which is another good sign for his rehabilitation progress.
The highlight of practice happened when Tom Brady hit Randy Moss for about 50 yards down the middle of the field. Moss split Saints cornerback Jabari Greer and safety Usama Young on the play, which would have resulted in a touchdown in live action (Moss stopped after catching the ball).
