Jacoby Brissett, Three Others Absent From Patriots Practice; Marcus Cannon Returns

FOXBORO, Mass. — Quarterback Jacoby Brissett wasn’t in attendance Friday as the New England Patriots hit the practice field for the final time this week.

Brissett, who started the last two games under center for the Patriots, is dealing with a thumb injury and was as a limited participant in Wednesday’s and Thursday’s practice sessions.

The rookie QB’s absence fuels speculation that the Patriots could place him on injured reserve to make room on the roster for quarterback Tom Brady. Brady and defensive end Rob Ninkovich are set to return from their respective four-game suspensions this Sunday in Cleveland, and the team must free up one additional roster spot after releasing tight end Clay Harbor earlier in the week.

Running back Brandon Bolden (knee), linebacker Shea McClellin (concussion) and defensive tackle Vincent Valentine (back) all missed their third consecutive day of practice Friday.

All other Patriots players were present, including tackle Marcus Cannon, who missed Thursday’s practice with a calf issue, and wide receiver Julian Edelman, who was listed as limited with a foot ailment on Thursday’s injury report.

UPDATE (1:40 p.m. ET): Brissett missed practice because he was undergoing surgery on his injured thumb, according to multiple reports.

Thumbnail photo via Winslow Townson/USA TODAY Sports Images