The good news for the Patriots? After enjoying a “mini bye” weekend after beating the Jets last Thursday night, a banged-up New England roster was much healthier during Wednesday’s practice at Gillette Stadium.

The bad news? New England’s defense might be thrown a curveball on Sunday in Cincinnati, as Bengals franchise QB Joe Burrow might be well ahead of schedule in his projected return to the gridiron.

On Wednesday’s injury report, the Bengals listed Burrow as a full participant in practice, presenting a possible scenario where the franchise QB is cleared for game action for Sunday’s game against New England.

Burrow has been sidelined since Week 2 of the 2025 season after suffering a turf toe injury that required surgery.

He was expected to be sidelined for three months, with NFL Ne

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