Aaron Hernandez (Knee) Looks Like He'll Play in Week 5; Get Him In Your Lineup

Aaron Hernandez looks like he'll be ready to play in week 5 against the Jets. 

One half of the New England Patriots tight end tandem has missed the last two weeks with a sprained knee, but should be ready to suit up against the Jets in week 5.

Hernandez was able to practice Thursday for the first time since spraining his MCL in week 2, but more importantly he was able to follow it up and practice on Friday as well. The day after the first practice is always the true test to see if a player can return from injury.

And Boston area beat writers have said that they haven't seen Hernandez walking with a limp. Another great sign that he'll play. He will, of course, be listed as questionable for the game, and you should definitely check the inactive lists an hour and a half before game time, but if there are no surprise red flags, get him in your lineup.

Hernandez was having a Pro-Bowl caliber season after just two games, posting 165 yards receiving, 14 receptions and two touchdowns. If he can continue at half that pace, he will be one of your more productive players (when he's in the lineup.)

Rob Gronkowski owners should expect some decline in their production with Hernandez back int he lineup, but with Tom Brady throwing it all over the field, don't expect it to fall off too much.

—Oct. 10, 2011