Foxborough, MA – The New England Patriots held a markedly healthier practice on Thursday, with several players returning after being sidelined due to an unspecified illness on Wednesday. Linebacker Anfernee Jennings and offensive tackle Riley Reiff were among those back on the field, signaling a positive shift for the team.

Wednesday's practice saw a significant number of Patriots players absent, impacting preparation for the upcoming game. The illness, while not publicly detailed, reportedly affected multiple position groups. The return of Jennings and Reiff is a boost to the defense and offensive line, respectively. Jennings, a key rotational linebacker, provides depth and versatility, while Reiff’s experience and skill at tackle are valuable assets.

Additionally, rookie offensive lineman Sidy Sow also participated in Thursday's practice after missing Wednesday’s session. While the full extent of the illness and the number of players still affected remains unclear, the return of these key contributors offers a sense of optimism for the Patriots as they continue to prepare.

The team's injury report leading up to the game will be closely monitored, and further updates are expected as the week progresses. The health of the Patriots roster is always a critical factor in their performance, and this week’s developments highlight the challenges teams face in maintaining player availability.