FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and the NFL:
1. The Patriots’ willingness to part ways with running back Kenjon Barner this week, despite limited depth at the position and rookie Sony Michel still limited in practice with a knee injury, is reflective of their belief that Rex Burkhead is on a positive track to return to action in early December.
Burkhead landed on injured reserve with a concussion in the third week of the season, and things have gone smoothly since he returned to practice Nov.