FOXBORO — Patriots quarterback Drake Maye was missing at the start of Wednesday’s practice during media access, but is expected to participate later in the day.
Patriots coach Jerod Mayo told reporters Wednesday that Maye would throw and be listed as limited on the team’s practice report. However, Mayo said the rookie would not practice longer than 30 minutes, indicating Maye is in Phase 3 of the league’s concussion protocol.
In Phase 3, concussed players are allowed to engaged in “sport-specific activities” and strength training under supervision. They are only permitted to practice for 30 minutes or less while being actively monitored. Maye is in the NFL’s concussion protocol after taking a blow to the back of the helmet late in the first quarter of last weekend’s win over the Jets.
Patriots left tackle Vederian Lowe was the only other player absent Wednesday. He returned from a one-game absence last Sunday and played every snap against the Jets despite a lingering ankle injury.
The Pats also welcomed back three players Wednesday: wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk (concussion), offensive guard Layden Robinson (ankle) and cornerback Alex Austin (ankle). Polk and Robinson missed last weekend’s win after sustaining new injuries the week before against Jacksonville.
Austin participated in his first practice since landing on injured reserve in Week 4. The Patriots must add him to the active roster within the next 21 days or Austin will remain on IR for the rest of the year.
Running back Antonio Gibson was present, but spent most of the initial periods with athletic trainers.
The team’s practice report is expected to be released shortly after 4 p.m.
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