The New England Patriots are on track to get one of their star players back just before the playoffs.
Milton Williams has been sidelined for four weeks after suffering a high ankle sprain early in the team’s Week 11 Thursday night win over the New York Jets. But the defensive tackle can officially start practicing this week.
And it seems that’s the plan.
“I think he’ll practice,” head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters on Tuesday. “I think we’ll start his window, see how he responds through the week of practice, and go from there. I know he worked extremely hard, off with the strength and conditioning staff, with the training staff, and involved in meetings. So, that’s really hard to do, is to be engaged in meetings when you know you’re not going to play and have some time. And so, appreciate what he’s done here, his leadership and his willingness to try to get back.”
Williams can be activated as early as this weekend for Sunday’s matchup against the Jets.
Even with missing some games, Williams has the third-most sacks on the team (3.5) and is tied for third in quarterback hits (8) and tackles for loss (7).
Milton Williams Is Ready To Return
GettyNew England Patriots defensive tackle Milton Williams was a surprising addition to the injury report ahead of a game with the Buffalo Bills.
After Vrabel’s announcement, Williams spoke with reporters in the locker room.
“I’m feeling good,” he said, per ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “Just have to see how it responds. If all goes well, it will be a good thing for the Patriots.”
Mike Vrabel Provides Other Key Injury Updates
GettyStefon Diggs of the New England Patriots
Sunday saw numerous Patriots players suffer injuries, with Vrabel confirming the number to be 10 in the win over the Baltimore Ravens. Among them were RB TreVeyon Henderson (head), WR Kayshon Boutte (head), DT Khyiris Tonga (foot), DT Joshua Farmer (hamstring), RT Morgan Moses (knee), OT Thayer Munford (knee), CB Carlton Davis, CB Charles Woods (ankle), WR DeMario Douglas (hamstring), and LG Jared Wilson.
Specifically, he revealed that Henderson, Boutte, and Wilson are in concussion protocol.
NFL Insider Ian Rapoport also reported that Tonga’s foot injury is only expected to be one-or-two weeks.
But as for the other players, Wednesday’s practice will provide reporters with the first look at who is healthy and who isn’t.
“We’ll figure out where things are later in the week and get everybody treatment,” Vrabel said. “We got back late, so today will be a good opportunity just to see a little bit of activity, a walkthrough to get guys up moving around.”
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