"Tom Brady listed patiently to the questions, with reporters wondering why he missed Wednesday's practice and what he did during the time away from the field. Before concluding his answer, the Patriots quarterback offered a reassuring word.

"I will be out there today," Brady said. "You guys don't have to worry about that."

With Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Ravens looming, Brady sat out Wednesday's practice because of his sprained left shoulder, indicating it was coach Bill Belichick's decision for him to do so. But he was back yesterday, participating fully in the workout with the entire roster of his teammates."