Patriots' Amendola returns to practice

New England Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola made his return to the practice field Thursday after a knee injury forced him to sit out the day prior.

Amendola likely still needs to make progress before he's cleared for game action, as he only took part in a limited capacity, but participating again Friday could put him on track to play Sunday against the Denver Broncos.

With Julian Edelman still facing an extended absence, Amendola has become the Patriots' most reliable contributor at the wide receiver position.

The seven-year veteran put together his most productive game of the season prior to sustaining the injury in last week's win over the Buffalo Bills, hauling in nine passes for 117 yards.