The New England Patriots didn't activate Julian Edelman from injured reserve for Week 15, and there's still a chance he doesn't play again this season despite a return to practice this week. According to ESPN's Mike Reiss, Edelman's return to the Patriots could be reliant upon the outcome of Sunday's game versus the Miami Dolphins.
Edelman was placed on injured reserve by New England following the team's matchup against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7. The veteran wideout was required to undergo surgery on his knee, with the hopes of returning to the Patriots before the end of the season.
However, if New England loses to Miami on Sunday, then Bill Belichick's squad would be eliminated from playoff contention. It would be the first time since the 2008 season that the Patriots wouldn't be playing in the postseason.
Of course, back in 2008 was when Tom Brady suffered a season-ending knee injury, forcing Matt Cassel to take his place. Despite having an 11-5 record, New England fell short of making the playoffs.
Seeing that the Patriots are a long shot to make the playoffs this season, they could decide to shut down Edelman for the last couple of games. Forcing a 34-year-old wide receiver back on the field at less than a hundred percent doesn't seem like a wise idea.
In the six games Edelman played before his injury, he caught 21 passes for 315 yards and zero touchdowns. If Edelman finishes the season with zero touchdowns, it would be the first time that has happened since the 2011 campaign.
While Edelman would love to play again this season, his status could be entirely dependent on what happens against the Dolphins. New England did beat Miami way back in Week 1, so the Dolphins will be out for revenge as they try to secure their own playoff spot.
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