Belichick: Brady Participating Without Limitation

FOXBORO - At the close of his annual predraft press conference, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said that quarterback Tom Brady has no physical restrictions placed on him as he takes part in offseason workouts with the team.

Brady's left knee was famously blown out during the first game of the 2008 regular season. After surgery to repair the ACL and MCL in early October, an infection set in and the knee had to be irrigated and antibiotics were administered for the next six weeks.

The infection resulted in a buildup of scar tissue and caused some looseness in the MCL but Brady has powered through his rehab, far exceeding expectations.

In late December, sources familiar with Brady's situation told us his rehab was significantly behind schedule. That fact would likely lead to backup Matt Cassel being franchised and Brady being limited at least into the summer.

Yet the progress Brady made from that point through early March made Cassel expendable (he was franchised, but dealt to Kansas City). And the limitations expected have conquered.

And while the risk of swelling or soreness certainly can't be ruled out as Brady ramps up his preparation for 2009 (sources have said Brady will have to wear a knee brace for the remainder of his career), that he's at this point in April is excellent news for New England. ,