Quarterback Tom Brady, who was photographed walking New York streets with a boot/brace on his right foot, was absent from the 15-minute portion of practice that the New England Patriots media was allowed to watch on Thursday.

The portion included stretching and a couple of drills.

Matt Cassel and Matt Gutierrez participated in the passing drills.

Coach Bill Belichick earlier had no comment about Brady's injury status.

Also absent were safety Rodney Harrison, who was listed last week as having a thigh injury, and safety Mel Mitchell, who was out last week with an arm injury.

E-mail this entry to a friend