Patriots WR Julian Edelman still doubtful for a return to action

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman, who returned to practice Dec. 11 for the first time since breaking a bone in his left foot Nov. 15, remains doubtful to return to game action.

Edelman has been a limited participant in practice since his return, and his status is one of the more notable aspects of the Patriots' final injury report of the week.

Meanwhile, quarterback Tom Brady was officially listed as questionable with an illness, but he expects to play barring an unexpected turn of events.

Brady is one of seven players listed as questionable, a group that includes linebacker Dont'a Hightower (knee), tight end Scott Chandler (knee), safety Patrick Chung (foot), guard Josh Kline (shoulder), special teams captain Matthew Slater (stinger) and safety Devin McCourty (ankle).

Linebackers Jonathan Freeny (hand) and Eric Martin (concussion) have already been ruled out, while receiver Danny Amendola (knee), defensive end Chandler Jones (abdomen) and cornerback Justin Coleman (hand) are probable.

Tight end Rob Gronkowski and starting center Bryan Stork were also on the injury report as non-participants in practice for non-injury reasons.