FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount, whose 18 rushing touchdowns led the NFL in the regular season, was not present at the team's unseasonably warm and sunny Wednesday afternoon practice.
The reason for Blount's absence is not known, although he was present at the facility in the morning before departing around the same time his teammates headed out for practice.
The Patriots will submit their first injury/participation report of the week later Wednesday and that should further clarify Blount's status.
Meanwhile, starting defensive tackle Alan Branch, who wasn't present at the start of Tuesday's practice when reporters were present, was back on the field Wednesday.