Belichick Talks Haynesworth, Light
FOXBORO (CBS) - New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick spoke to the media Thursday for the final time until after Saturday's preseason game against the Lions.
He mentioned that this preseason has been a hurry-up one, and the players and the coaches have had to get ready extra fast because of the lockout. For that reason, they had to leave some items out. Here are some of the other topics that were touched upon during Bill's Thursday press conference.
On Albert Haynesworth. A reporter from NFL Network was on hand, and asked question after question about Haynesworth and why he was out of practice for such a long stretch before returning Tuesday. When asked if it was a coincidence that Haynesworth returned the day after his court settlement, Belichick responded, "He had practiced before that."
Belichick also noted that Haynesworth has done everything that the Patriots have asked so far.
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With the defensive lineman practicing for the third straight day on Thursday, there is a chance he could see his first preseason action on Saturday.
Haynesworth was in the Patriots lockeroom after practice, but did not have anything to say to reporters.
Matt Light close to return. Left tackle Matt Light is another player yet to see action in the preseason as he works his way back from offseason shoulder surgery, but the coach sounded confident the veteran will be protecting Tom Brady soon.
"He's been out there, he's been able to do everything," said Belichick. "I think his lead up to the start of practice was good and since he's been on the field, he's been able to do everything we've asked him to do. I think he's close. If he doesn't play this week, I think he'll be ready to play soon."
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Some notable players missing from practice and unlikely to play Saturday include running back Stevan Ridley, corner Leigh Bodden and linebacker/defensive end Jermaine Cunningham.
