Rodney Harrison returned to practice today, nearly one week after the New England Patriots opened training camp. Harrison joined 11 over players on the PUP list at the start of camp. The exact nature of Harrison's injury wasn't disclosed, but he participated in team drills for both sessions; the morning walkthrough and the afternoon full pads practice.
Harrison is considered to be one of the smartest players in the league on defense, and -- according to ESPN -- one of the dirtiest.
Forget ESPN, at least that's what New England will try to do as they prepare for another season with the former Charger leading the secondary.
Harrison spent his first nine seasons in San Diego where he became a veteran leader of the team's defense. After being released by San Diego under coach Marty Schottenheimer, Harrison joined the Patriots as an unrestricted free agent on March 12, 2003.
Harrison has continued his leadership presence in New England in this his 15th season in the league. Over his 14-year career, Harrison has recorded 1,166 tackles (896 solo), 30.5 sacks, 33 interceptions, 113 passes defended, forced 14 fumbles and managed to recover 7 fumbles.
Harrison's return leaves just nine players on the PUP list: Jarvis Green, Ellis Hobbs, Stephen Neal, Oliver Ross, Bo Ruud, Mike Vrabel, Wes Welker, Ryan Wendell and Mike Wright.