enlarge The Associated Press

With his right ankle taped to just under his calf, New England quarterback Tom Brady was able to practice Monday in Arizona for the first time since being injured against San Diego in the AFC championship game

PHOENIX — Tom Brady was back where he belongs Monday, behind center for the New England Patriots' first practice session of Super Bowl week.

Brady missed three practices last week with a tender right ankle, which was taped for Monday's practice. According to Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune, the designated pool reporter, Brady appeared to have a slight limp but participated in all phases of practice, including jogging the length of the field twice at the end of drills.

Coach Bill Belichick, as usual, did not comment on injuries.

"Everybody practiced," Belichick said. "The injury report will be out Wednesday."

Brady's return was a welcome sight for receiver Wes Welker.

"Any time the MVP of the league is back, it has to be a positive," Welker said. "He looks good -- same dimples and all."

Brady said Sunday the ankle wouldn't be a problem. Nor are his teammates concerned.

"I don't worry about Tom," tackle Matt Light said. "He can take care of himself. I have a bunch of guys in front of me from the Giants to worry about."

Brady's health became an issue a week ago when he was spotted wearing a protective boot on his right foot while visiting his supermodel girlfriend, Gisele Bundchen, in New York.