New England Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork's presence on the practice field of late has been inspiring. It got even better this week.
The veteran defensive tackle, coming off a season-ending ruptured Achilles at the end of September of last year, was reportedly in action for 11-on-11 drills Thursday.
While that seems like a small thing, given that it's only spring rehearsal, it's a big one for him. Maybe even moreso for his teammates.
"Just seeing him back out there is a very, very big asset; it’s great," linebacker Dont’a Hightower said after practice, via ESPN Boston's Mike Reiss. "Having him in front of you is like a big force field, especially being a linebacker, but for the team as well."
According to Reiss, the 32-year-old lineman looked good and showed some explosiveness, and though he wasn't a full participant, it was a "significant step."
Wilfork will again try his hand this season alongside and in rotation with veteran Tommy Kelly, who also got hurt last season, though first-round rookie Marcus Easley will jockey for position in the starting lineup while Chris Jones, Joe Vellano, Armond Armstead and Sealver Silga battle for roster spots.
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