Aaron Hernandez “Very Close” To Returning?

CSN New England reports that a source informed them that Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez is “very close” to returning to game action.

Hernandez took part in another practice on Friday, but it still seems unlikely that he’ll play against the Broncos this weekend. At best, he would be a game-time decision, but it would probably make more sense for them to play it safe and ensure that he can put together a complete week of practice, rather than rush him back.

The good news is that his status moving forward is looking positive.

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The Boston Herald reports that Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez was able to return to the practice field on Thursday, despite the ankle injury that he has been dealing with.

Hernandez limped a bit during the early portion of today’s practice, but actually looked ok just a few minutes later.

He’ll almost certainly be held out of this weekend’s game, but looks to have a real shot of returning for Week 6’s matchup against the Seahawks.

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Albert Breer of NFL.com reports that Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez is a “virtual certainty” to miss this weekend’s game against the Denver Broncos.

Hernandez did not practice on Wednesday, but there have been positive signs regarding his high ankle sprain. Yesterday, reporters mentioned that Hernandez “briskly” walked through the Patriots locker room without a limp, which is an encouraging sign given that high ankle sprains tend to be pretty serious and it’s only been a few weeks since he suffered the injury.

Intial reports suggested that he would be 4-6 weeks, which means the earliest he could return would next weekend. There’s a chance that he will be able to return to the practice field next week, given that he has shown signs of progress, but that’s speculation on my part.