Practicing has not been much of a problem for Aqib Talib since he injured his left hip against New Orleans in Week 6. He's suited up and taken part on a limited basis since then, missing just two sessions immediately afterward, but has been inactive for the three games that followed.

Talib spoke to reporters in the locker room after Thursday's workout – perhaps a sign that he is prepared to play again Monday night against Carolina.

All he would say today, though, was that his status remains "day-to-day," but that he's been frustrated having to sit out for the past month.

"Definitely, man, anytime you have to watch the guys go to war without you, man, that's the worst thing in the world," he remarked.

Running back Shane Vereen (left wrist) made a cameo in the locker room, but didn't stop to chat with the media. He walked straight to the training room and wasn't seen thereafter. He is eligible to return from the injured reserve/designated-to-return list this week, but the team has yet to activate him to the 53-man roster.

Defensive end Rob Ninkovich also practiced again. He hasn't missed a session since leaving the Pittsburgh game with a foot injury and seemed to talk like a player who was preparing to face the Panthers.

"Yeah, it was good to have some rest there [over the bye week] and get back to focusing on football now, which is the most important part – preparing this week to play a good team. It's nice to get back to 100 percent," said Ninkovich.

Safety Steve Gregory (right thumb) remains the only Patriot not on the practice field. He's missed the past two days, as well as last week's lone bye week practice.

Meanwhile, cornerback Alfonzo Dennard has been added to the injury report with a knee problem. He was limited in Thursday's action. Wide receiver Danny Amendola, who'd been limited with a groin issue, was a full participant for the first time in weeks.