FOXBORO, Mass. — Left guard Logan Mankins was surprisingly absent from the Patriots’ practice Wednesday, but defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth returned to the field after being out with a back injury.
It’s the first time Mankins has missed a practice in 2011 since signing his franchise tender and debuting on the field Aug. 4.
Tight end Aaron Hernandez, tackle Sebastian Vollmer and defensive lineman Mike Wright were also absent from practice, which was conducted in full pads for the first time since Sept. 8. It was the 40th practice of the year, not including regular-season walkthroughs, and the 12th practice of the regular season.
Haynesworth missed two practices last week and didn’t travel to Buffalo.
Defensive lineman Gerard Warren debuted at practice after officially signing with the team Wednesday morning.
Safety Patrick Chung (hand) and cornerback Ras-I Dowling (hip) also practiced after missing Sunday’s game against the Bills. Chung appeared to have a different cast on his hand in the locker room. It didn’t appear to be as bulky, and it wasn’t completely covering his right thumb.
