By Mary Paoletti
CSNNE.com Staff ReporterFollow @mary_paoletti
FOXBORO -- Shaun Ellis was fresh off the physically unable to perform list Saturday. The 34-year old end, looking to start his 12th season, mostly played spectator to the Patriots walkthrough until joining in the final jog. The appearance was his first since he signing with the team August 7.
It seemed, more than anything, the D-liner was just happy to get back to business.
On his return:
It felt good, being on the field, around teammates, moving around a little bit, he said.
On what he's done in the meantime:
"Lighting weights, running, extra conditioning. Just trying to get caught up to speed with these guys. They've been running a lot so I'm just trying to get caught up with them and get ready for the season."
His impressions from watching the Patriots:
"It's been great. It makes me want to be a part of it that much more. We have a lot of guys who can stop the run and also get after the quarterback -- a lot of talent. I'm just eager to be a part of it and go out and contribute the best way I can."
On the team's depth at defensive line:
I think thats the key to the season; being fresh late in the year, when it gets playoff time. Rotating is definitely going to take the pressure off a lot of guys and keep us fresh throughout.
New England Patriots
On joining former Jets teammate James Ihedigbo:
"It was good. He did a lot of great things for the Jets; I'm glad to have him on our side. He's a tremendous player, players really hard. And he's smart, too. That's a plus."
On transitioning from Jets to Patriots:
No surprises. Ive kind of been through it a little bit. I was born into this family, with Bill Parcells, being drafted by him, and going through that period my rookie year and going through it with Eric Mangini there. Im glad to get back to the swing of things.
Mary Paoletti can be reached at mpaoletti@comcastsportsnet.com. Follow Mary on Twitter at http:twitter.comMary_Paoletti