Setback for Poole?

Cornerback Tyrone Poole (ankle) appeared to suffer a setback in his rehabilitation, walking through the Patriots’ locker room with the aid of crutches on Thursday.

While many of his teammates put on their shorts, practice jerseys and helmets, Poole wore a sweatsuit and exited the locker room, with his backpack, on crutches. He wasn’t putting much pressure on his right foot.

Poole referred comments to the Patriots’ coaching staff, saying only that he was using crutches as a precaution.

Poole was an opening-night starter at cornerback, but hasn’t played since. He was listed as questionable on the team’s most recent injury report, although he said last week he was ready to play when called upon. He had returned to practice for the first time in the days leading up to the Falcons’ game. His condition might have led to the re-signing of cornerback Hank Poteat on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, safeties Rodney Harrison and Guss Scott –- both of whom have been placed on injured reserve –- were present in the locker room today. Harrison said he’s yet to have surgery on his knee, as doctors wait for the swelling to go down. Harrison was asked about holding the secondary together in 2003 and 2004, as well as Tedy Bruschi’s return. He declined to answer both questions, but answered others. He’s spending time in New England and Atlanta, where he resides in the offseason.

At practice, receiver Troy Brown and running back Corey Dillon weren’t present at the portion the media was present, which included stretching and special teams work. The team was in shorts and practice jerseys, with no contact. Tedy Bruschi was present for the second straight day. Outside linebacker Willie McGinest was also back on the field.

Looking ahead, we’ll plan on posting one more update, likely later tonight.

–Mike