Because Connolly has played so well at left guard, the Patriots won't be forced to rush Mankins onto the field this week against the Browns, and they can bring him along at a more appropriate pace. Among other things, it will help Mankins avoid injury, which is always a concern for players who miss training camp, let alone two months of the regular season.
Mankins said he knew right away that Connolly would be able to step into the starting role and perform well enough to help the team.
"I know one thing," Mankins said. "I had a lot more faith in Dan Connolly than you guys did before the season started. Dan is a great friend of mine. He's done a great job, and it was fun watching him play, and get the opportunity to play to prove everyone that he can do it."
Connolly was happy to hear Mankins' praise.
"Sure, that feels great," Connolly said. "The hard work that I put in, the preparation paid off."
Now that Mankins is back in the mix, Connolly said he'll continue to take the same approach on a weekly basis. First off, Connolly had to know Mankins would get his job back once he returned, and second, Connolly is always one play away from returning to the field.
And even though Connolly's role on the offensive line will soon diminish, he sounds happy to have him back around Gillette Stadium.
"I'm good friends with Logan," Connolly said, "and it's good to see him here."
