… The Patriots practiced in typical mid-October, autumn weather: cloudy, cool, and a bit breezy. Down on the single practice field behind Gillette Stadium, the team wore shorts, shells, and helmets.

… Good and bad news with regard to injuries. Right tackle Sebastian Vollmer (back) returned to action for the first time since Week 1. Also, wide receiver Julian Edelman (right ankle) and running back Danny Woodhead (left ankle) suited up after missing all of last week.

…On the other hand, still no sign of linebacker Jerod Mayo (left knee), nor safety Josh Barrett (thumb/hamstring), did practice last week, but was deactivated for the Jets game. Lastly, Mike Wright (concussion) missed today's session after taking part in the last two workouts last week. He, too, was inactive for the game against New York.

… New England made a couple of roster moves already this week, letting loose offensive lineman Thomas Welch, who played considerably the past two weeks as an extra blocking tight end and occasional right tackle. One of his missed blocks was conspicuous, though, as it led to one of the four sacks the Jets had against Tom Brady. This is the third time Welch, in his second year, has been cut by the Patriots. Filling Welch's spot on the active roster is Dan Gronkowski. The tight end and older brother of Rob Gronkowski is in his second stint this season with New England.

… Welch wasn't gone long, however. Apparently, he went unclaimed in his away from the team and was re-signed to the practice squad. Clearly, New England's coaching and personnel staffs like this player, or they wouldn't keep finding room for him on the roster.

… Black jerseys were allotted to the following practice players of the past week: rookie defensive end/outside 'backer Markell Carter, rookie QB Ryan Mallett, tight end Garrett Mills, cornerback Antwaun Molden, and reserve o-lineman Ryan Wendell.

… A recap of today's locker room interviews will appear later on patriots.com.

UPDATED … 4:11 p.m.

Mayo, Barrett, and Wright did not take part at all in today's practice. Meanwhile, the three returning players mentioned above were all limited in their activity.

Running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis (toe), safety Sergio Brown (chest), and wide receiver Matthew Slater (ribs) were newcomers to the list and also limited in practice. Cornerback Leigh Bodden remains on the list, but his condition has changed from groin to thumb.

Down in Dallas, the Cowboys list a number of players, though most took part fully in today's practice, including QB Tony Romo (ribs) and wide receivers Miles Austin (hamstring) and Dez Bryant (thigh).