Maybe not by coincidence, it was also the first time he was on the field at the same time as teammate Kevin Faulk, who returned Sunday after a 13-month absence with a knee injury. Faulk led the Patriots in rushing and total touches (six receptions, five rushes), while Woodhead's role was extremely limited. It was the first time he didn't get a single carry since hooking up with New England.
"I'm the ultimate team [player]," Woodhead said. "I want to win the game. That's the most important thing, and whatever we can do to win the game is most important."
Woodhead signed with the Patriots on Sept. 18, 2010, one day before their Week 2 loss to the Jets, when Faulk suffered a torn ACL. Without Faulk, Woodhead became the Patriots' primary backfield option in the passing game, and he eventually proved to be an excellent change-of-pace back to complement BenJarvus Green-Ellis.
But Sunday was the first true indication that Woodhead's snaps will be limited with Faulk back in the mix. And while many players say the right thing when they allude to the team-first mantra, Woodhead genuinely means it. He's excited to work with Faulk because he knows the team is better with him actively involved.
"He's a great teammate, and he's obviously a great player, also," Woodhead said. "He's a great person to be around."
Then, in typical fashion, Woodhead answered one more question before darting out of the locker room.
"I'm feeling good," Woodhead said, "just looking forward to going out to practice right now."
