Posted on 10/16/2005 4:33:04 AM PDT by bikepacker67
It was always a strange move, putting Tedy Bruschi on the physically unable to perform list rather than just injured reserve.
Red flags went up immediately, questions were asked. Why not just put the guy on injured reserve, which means he is done for the season? Why leave him on a list that defers a roster move for six to 12 weeks?
As often is the case in Foxboro, those questions were brushed aside or ignored.
Bruschi is about to provide all the answers. The New England Patriots linebacker is set to climb back through that window which was left open for him to return. The Boston Globe reported Bruschi himself confirmed he will attempt to resume his career later this week when he becomes eligible to do so.
Prior to the start of training camp, Bruschi said in a statement released through the team that he would not play in 2006 as he recovered from a minor stroke suffered last February. More recently, however, he has offered a no comment rather than a no when asked if he might return sooner.
Players who are unable to start training camp are often placed on the physically unable to perform list or PUP. They can be removed during training camp, but once the season starts, they must sit out the first six games before returning. The Patriots play their sixth game today at Denver and are off next week.
A return during the team's bye week allows Bruschi to ease back into the flow. It also allows the team to see where he stands after spending much of the last few months working out and attending defensive meetings. New England hosts Buffalo on Sunday, Oct.30.
Bruschi can actually reenter practice anytime over the next three weeks. Once he returns, he can practice for 21 days before the team must make some sort of decision on his future, either activating him to the 53-man roster or placing him on injured reserve. He cannot play in a game until he is activated to the 53-man roster.
The Patriots are 3-2 entering today's game and have struggled to overcome the losses of inside linebackers Bruschi and Ted Johnson, as well as defensive backs Ty Law and Rodney Harrison. They are averaging more than 27 points per game, about 11 more than last season.
Bruschi's ability to make the big play has been missed on a team which has made only one interception in five games after finishing last season with 20. He also played an important role on special teams, which might be a way for him to work his way back into game shape.
He is my favorite player...
I read something about this earlier in the week, but had heard that his doctors and Robert Kraft had yet to sign off. I would love to see him return if it doesn't jeopardize his health. The team really needs him right now.
Great news for the Pats, Chad Brown is not up to the task and will be better in a reserve role. I just hope they are sure about his health.
Tedy's stroke was caused by a hole in his heart, which has been repaired. Details of repair and risks discussed here:
http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2005/10/can-tedy-bruschi-return-to-football.html
I just have 1 thing to say, "Tedy, if you even think there's a chance you're not ready, then back out. We want you 100%, but your wife and kids would need you more than your fans."
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