Image courtesy of New England Patriots

FOXBOROUGH – While rookie Gabe Jacas has finally gotten on the field and quickly shown that he may be a factor much sooner rather than later this year for the New England defense, another key piece of the puzzle is still missing.

Harold Landry injured his knee in Week 6 last season and despite doing his best to get back, was never really able to have an impact during the Super Bowl run. His first year with the Patriots ended with 49 total tackles (27 solo), 8.5 sacks and a forced fumble.

As EDGE remains a big question, Landry’s presence would certainly be a boost. But, it doesn’t feel like the 30-year old is anywhere close to getting back on the field yet.

On Tuesday prior to a joint practice with the Colts, I asked Vrabel if there was any update on Landry’s status or the process he’s currently going through.

“He’s continuing to improve. But again, I don’t think we want to rush anything,” he said. “Harold stays locked in on what we are doing in our defense, and again, I just want to give him every opportunity that he can to get back and feel good and feel confident before we start his clock and take him off of the PUP list.”

So, the team clearly still believes Landry will be suing up at some point this season, but it’s hard to really believe he’ll be the same player the organization signed for $43.5-million last March until we actually see it.