FOXBORO -- After being benched for all but 16 snaps in the fourth quarter during a Week 16 win over the Jets, Malcom Brown responded with a strong week of practice.
The Patriots announced on Wednesday that Brown was one of eight practice players of the week for Week 17. Joining Brown were rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett, rookie running back DJ Foster, defensive lineman Geneo Grissom, fullback Glenn Gronkowski, tight end Matt Lengel, rookie linebacker Elandon Roberts and offensive tackle LaAdrian Waddle.
Brown did not start in New England's second-to-last game of the regular season against the Jets, giving way to rookie Vincent Valentine, who saw a season-high 41 plays in the victory. Brown also came off the bench against the Dolphins on New Year's Day, but he was effective in 37 plays and out-snapped Valentine (20 plays).
Brissett has been working as the scout-team quarterback since his return off of injured reserve, but his recent contributions have extended beyond the practice field. He was praised by receiver Michael Floyd for helping tutor Floyd in the ways of the Patriots offense, and their work together sees to have paid off. Floyd caught three passes for 36 yards, including one touchdown in Miami. Floyd also made several positive plays as a blocker, and his bone-jarring hit on Dolphins defensive back Tony Lippett stood out as one of the highlights of the afternoon.