Patriots defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr on CB Christian Gonzalez: Flying around out there, doesn’t look like he missed a step.

WR A.J. Brown, who says his status for Sunday’s game is “still up in the air”, on his return to practice:

When your offense has its No. 1 receiver return to practice …

Patriots special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer shares that Mike Vrabel and John Streicher prepare a video on situational football/special teams that is part of the weekly Friday schedule … and one theme is the importance of being able to cover kicks late in games.

“I think we’re getting our groove back. It’s our ‘Backyard Boogie.’ That’s what I like to say when we’re playing in Gillette Stadium.” — WR Kyle Williams (file photo), on the offense looking to build on its recent rhythm/success

Question: What do you remember about facing David Bailey in college, and now preparing for him this week against the Jets, how has his game evolved?   Rookie OT Caleb Lomu (file photo):

Patriots Thursday S™️🗣️12:45p: Jeremy Springer ⭕️©️1:05p: Josh McDaniels 🔒🚪1:15p: Locker room 🏈2:10p: Practice D🤺4p: Zak Kuhr (then assistants) NOTES: LT Will Campbell on less severe right knee injury -- "Could definitely tell a difference from this year to last year."

From the back of the room: QB Drake Maye answers questions from reporters on WR A.J. Browns return to practice, saying it was great to see him smiling.

Patriots injury report

Christian Gonzalez returns to practice.

A.J. Brown — a significant return at Patriots practice.

Question: How are you feeling? Christian Gonzalez: “Good. Ready to go for Sunday.”

Question: What kind of a boost does it give the team to have A.J. Brown back at practice? Kevin Byard: “Huge boost. He’s a receiver one …”

A.J. Brown is being designated to return from IR today, per Mike Vrabel.