The New England Patriots are in danger of missing the playoffs for the first time since 2008, but they are getting an offensive weapon back for the final three games.

The team announced Julian Edelman returned to practice Wednesday after missing the last seven games due to knee surgery.

New England had a vital opportunity to join the playoff picture with a win over the Los Angeles Rams last weekend.

But L.A.'s defense totally swarmed Cam Newton and Co. The Pats' offense was held to just 220 yards, and the Rams sacked Newton four times.

Now, at 6-7, the Pats find themselves scrambling for their playoff lives.

New England has to win out and get incredibly lucky just to sniff the seventh and final seed in the AFC. The ESPN NFL Football Power Index currently gives the Pats a mere 3.6 percent chance of making the playoffs. Needless to say, the odds are against them.

The Patriots will have their work cut out starting against a fairly stingy Miami Dolphins defense this Sunday.

Miami ranks just 18th in the NFL in terms of total yards allowed, but they have managed to keep opposing offenses out of the end zone, ranking second in defensive scoring.

Edelman might be more of a decoy on Sunday, as New England figures to run the ball against a Dolphins front seven giving up 4.6 yards per carry. Still, the Patriots will hope the veteran receiver is fully healthy and capable of making plays as the offense tries to kick it into full gear for the final three games.