Brandon LaFell Illness: Updates on Patriots Star's Status and Return

Brandon LaFell is dealing with strep throat and is trying to recover in time for Week 11.

Continue for updates.

Sunday, Nov. 16

LaFell Active vs. Colts

Mike Reiss of ESPN reported on Brandon LaFell's status for Week 11:

Wednesday, Nov. 12

LaFell Diagnosed with Strep Throat, Returns to Practice

Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald reported on Brandon LaFell's status:

Doug Kyed of NESN later reported on LaFell's return to practice:

Phil Perry of CSN New England provides comments from LaFell:

Tuesday, Nov. 11

New England Patriots star wide receiver Brandon LaFell was reportedly not on the practice field Tuesday. 

According to Ryan Hannable of WEEI.com, there was no immediate reason for LaFell's absence. This would be his first missed practice of the season:

"

LaFell’s absence comes as a bit of a surprise, especially following a bye week. The wide receiver hasn’t missed a practice this season and practiced last Wednesday — the last practice before the team departed for their bye week. [...]

Since it is Tuesday and the team is only required to put out three injury reports a week, there will not be one today.

"

LaFell has turned out to be one of the great underrated signings of the offseason. Coming to the Patriots from Carolina, he's recorded 36 receptions for 514 yards and tying his career high with five touchdown catches. 

Coming off the bye, the Patriots (7-2) are preparing for a crucial AFC showdown with Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts (6-3) on Sunday Night Football.