Patriots DE Chandler Jones and G Logan Mankins return to practice

Chandler Jones and Logan Mankins could be on track to play this week. (US Presswire)

The New England Patriots aren't going to be healthy anytime in the near future, but at least a few members of the walking wounded are starting to shake off their ailments.

In a bit of good news, Thursday's practice saw DE Chandler Jones (ankle) and G Logan Mankins (calf/ankle) return to the field in a limited capacity.

The Patriots listed 13 other players as limited, including LB Brandon Spikes, who suffered a new ankle injury sometime in the last week. TE Rob Gronkowski (forearm/hip) and offensive lineman Nick McDonald (shoulder) were the only players who did not participate.

Jones suffered an ankle injury in Week 11 against the Indianapolis Colts and was forced to miss the next two games against the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins. After Jermaine Cunningham was suspended for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs, Trevor Scott started last week against Miami and had two sacks and a forced fumble.

New England has had little issue filling in for Mankins, who last played in Week 9, but getting him back for Monday night's game to help against the Houston Texans' pass rush, which has 36 sacks, would be a big boost.

Nick Underhill covers the Patriots for MassLive.com. Follow him on Twitter@CBSPats or @Nick_Underhill.