FOXBORO -- Wide receiver Leonard Hankerson debuted at today's practice after the Patriots claimed him yesterday from the Falcons.
The Falcons waived Hankerson from injured reserve, where he was placed due to hamstring issues, so his participation today indicates some optimism that he could still contribute in 2015.
Safety Devin McCourty (high ankle sprain), linebacker Jonathan Freeny (dislocated thumb and wrist) and linebacker Eric Martin were absent from practice. It's possible Martin was released from the active roster because he has already been involved in nine transactions with the Patriots in 2015, including three releases.
With running back Steven Jackson in town today, the potential for an open roster spot adds some intrigue to that situation.