New England Patriots' tight end Aaron Hernandez missed the beginning of the team's practice on Thursday, according to a report by Christopher Price of WEEI.com. In addition to Hernandez, running back Brandon Bolden and cornerback Kyle Arrington were the only players missing from practice, which was held in pads on the lower fields behind Gillette Stadium.

With Thursday being the final team practice before the Patriots begin their bye week, it's unlikely that any information will be released on Hernandez's status as the team is not required to release an injury report. Hernandez has been battling a lingering ankle injury, which was originally sustained in Week 2.

After returning to action on Oct. 14, he played in two games before suffering a setback, which kept him out of the Patriots' matchup against the St. Louis Rams in London. last Sunday He did not travel with the team to the game.

The Patriots will return to action in Week 10 against the Buffalo Bills on Nov. 11.