Patriots' Jabaal Sheard: Participates in position drills

Sheard (knee) participated in individual drills for the first time since spraining his MCL, Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis:

Sheard's injury occurred during the Patriots' preseason opener against the Saints. While he didn't participate fully, his return is an encouraging sign that the defensive end is nearing a return. He'll be expected to slide into the starting lineup once fully healthy.