FOXBORO, Mass. — Patriots defensive lineman Ron Brace is healthy enough to get on the field Sunday for the first time this season, and he's hoping the coaching staff gives him the go-ahead.
Regardless, the Patriots only have a few more days to make a decision on Brace, who started the season on the physically unable to perform list with an elbow injury. They have until Tuesday to either promote him to the active roster or place him on injured reserve.
"I feel good," Brace said. "It's just a matter of if the coach thinks I'm ready. It's all up to him. I know he's going to make the best call for the team. All I can do is wait and see what they want me to do."
There seems to be a strong possibility that the Patriots could activate Brace in time for Sunday's game against the Giants, mostly because they released safety Ross Ventrone on Thursday and didn't sign any free agents in time for Friday's practice. Therefore, the open roster spot will go to someone like Brace, offensive lineman Marcus Cannon (highly unlikely) or a member of the practice squad.
Brace, though, wasn't reading into anything.
"There are a bunch of roster moves around here," Brace said. "You never know what he has planned. I just know I have to come in each week and study the opponent because this is something that is out of my control. I've got to handle what I can control."
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick made it sound like the decision would be made after watching Brace practice Friday.
"I think he's certainly making good progress," Belichick said. "We'll see how this week finishes up, but he's getting close."
And if that call comes?
"I'll be like, 'Where do you want me?'" Brace said. "I'm just staying ready. That's all I can concentrate on."
