After a day off, the New England Patriots were back on the practice field on Thursday for a lighter day of work with just helmets and shells.
The previous two practices had been in full pads, but the team opted to lower the level of intensity. That didn't take away from the fact that this was an intriguing practice for a multitude of different reasons, including the returns of linebacker Matthew Judon and center David Andrews.
Judon's return was particularly interesting considering his ongoing contract issues with the team. His presence was a welcome sight for a Patriots team that'll be competing in their first preseason game a week from now.