"The 2011 season hasn't unfolded like Sebastian Vollmer imagined.

The third-year player suffered a back injury in the preseason, missed five of the first six games, then appeared rusty when he returned against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Yet now, after working his way into form over the past three games, the Patriots starting right tackle is finally feeling like his old self. And at least he doesn't have to focus on his ailment.

"It feels all right," said Vollmer, who was replaced by rookie Nate Solder. "Obviously, the concentration now is back on Kansas City (instead of the injury). You can only worry about things you can control. This weekend's going to be Kansas City, that's what I'm concentrating on.""