Make it three straight practices in full pads for tight end Rob Gronkowski, who continues his comeback from offseason back and left forearm surgeries.
Gronk took part once again in blocking drills during the media viewing period at the start of practice, working against rookie Zach Sudfeld during position drills. He also ran a few out-routes and caught passes during the same warm-up period.
Other notes from Wednesday:
…O-lineman Will Svitek remains the only Patriot on the active roster not at practice. He was seen in the locker room the other day sporting a black sleeve and brace around his right knee.
…New tight end Matthew Mulligan was at practice wearing jersey number 88. He also had a huge wrap or white pad covering his entire right arm.
…New England made a pre-practice transaction, replacing linebacker Jeff Tarpinian on the practice squad with rookie offensive lineman Josh Kline, who'd been with the club throughout the spring and summer.
…Wednesday's during the regular season are typically the busiest of the week, in terms of media coverage of NFL clubs. QB Tom Brady is scheduled to address reporters after practice, along with head coach Bill Belichick. The rest of the team will be available for interviews in the locker room as well. The first injury/practice participation report of the season will be released this afternoon around 4 p.m. EST.
