One week after cornerback Christian Gonzalez made his season debut, another starter level contributor is getting close to returning to the New England Patriots defense. Linebacker Jahlani Tavai, who has been sidelined since sustaining a calf injury during organized team activities in June, was a full practice participant throughout the week.

While officially still on injured reserve, the Patriots activating him to their 53-man roster ahead of Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills would not be a surprise. They labeled him as “questionable” on their final injury report of the week.

On Friday, head coach Mike Vrabel gave a status update on the 29-year-old and his attempt at a comeback.

“Worked really hard to be in shape, trying to simulate football shape and his return to play, trying to

See Full Page