"Upon returning to the practice field after a lengthy absence, linebacker Tedy Bruschi said early last week he was trying to find his way and role on the team.

Asked about his progress yesterday, the 36-year-old Bruschi said he was mostly pleased with his health.

"I feel good," Bruschi said. "I think the best thing I feel about is my body, my body's doing well . . . (I've) been feeling good out there, been able to participate, not like the beginning of camp . . . now I'm just sort of in a progression like the other players, trying to get ready for the regular season."

Bruschi played in last Thursday's exhibition against Cincinnati, appearing with the second unit. Judging by his remarks, he didn't feel too much should be read into that role.

"I've had so many years where where you are in September is different from where you are in December," he said. "So I've learned that, ever since I was a third-down situational pass-rushing rookie that played on special teams all the way through my entire career, that you never assume what your role is going to be. Just be ready when your coach calls on you."

As for his opinion of the linebacking corps as a whole, the 14-year veteran was pleased.

"So far, so good," Bruschi said. "I don't think we've been doing terrible, we're making progress, week-to-week. Right now, it's not September, it's not October, so you really can't tell too much. From the four weeks we've had at training camp, I think the fans can look forward to seeing the linebackers make a lot of plays."

Hochstein traded

The Pats sent reserve offensive lineman Russ Hochstein to Denver for a seventh-round draft choice in 2010. It was the same pick they originally sent to the Broncos last week in the Le Kevin Smith trade.

"We borrowed it for a couple of days," Broncos coach Josh McDaniels quipped.

Hochstein was present during the open locker room session yesterday, and had no idea of the impending trade. He played guard and center for the Pats, as well as some fullback last year.

However, he appeared to be dropping down the depth chart with promising rookies Rich Ohrnberger (fourth-round pick) and George Bussey (fifth) fighting for spots at guard. Ryan Wendell and Dan Connolly have been serving as the backup centers.

On the Mark

The Pats locked up their second offensive tackle in as many days when they reached a contract extension with reserve Mark LeVoir. LeVoir has been on the physically unable to perform list all camp.

According to the NFL Players Association Web site, Le Voir will make $460,000 in 2009, $550,000 in '10, and $690,000 in '11.

On Monday, the Pats and right tackle Nick Kaczur agreed to an extension."