New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman reportedly has a good chance to return to the field by week 17 against AFC East rival the Miami Dolphins, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport.
Edelman suffered a broken bone in his foot against the New York Giants in week 10, but reports have stated that the Patriots star wide out would be able to return for the playoffs. New England currently sits as the top seed in the AFC playoff picture, and the return of Edelman only increases their chances this postseason.
The Patriots likely want to get Edelman back on the field in week 17 to get him acclimated to game speed, as the slot receiver has been out since mid-November. In nine games this season, Edelman has caught 61 passes for 692 yards and has scored seven touchdowns.
The Patriots took another big loss this week when lead running back LeGarrette Blount was placed on injured reserve with a hip injury. Despite losing multiple key players this season, New England has continued to dominate and, at 11-2, are looking to pick up a first-round bye in the playoffs. The return of Edelman will clearly help the Patriots chances this postseason, and combining him with tight end Rob Gronkowski gives New England two of the best weapons the NFL has to offer.
