Austin Hooper Injury: Limited in practice Wednesday

Hooper (concussion) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice.

After missing the Patriots' Week 11 win over the Jets while working his way through the concussion protocol, Hooper's return to practice as a limited participant represents a tangible step in the right direction. The tight end will need to upgrade to full participation Thursday and/or Friday and receive clearance from an independent neurologist in order to play Sunday against the Bengals, however. If available Sunday, Hooper will resume working as the top backup to Hunter Henry.