INDIANAPOLIS -- An apparent stomach bug has affected the New England Patriots this week, as starting left tackle Matt Light missed practice Monday and was kept out of Media Day on Tuesday because he is ill, according to a team official.
Two other players are also under the weather. Right tackle Sebastian Vollmer also skipped Media Day with illnesses, according to head coach Bill Belichick, while linebacker Jerod Mayo attended but said he has a cold.Â
Other team personnel have also fallen sick, according to the team official.
Light is one of seven Patriots who played against the Giants in Super Bowl XLII, and isn't a favorite of at least one of the New York defenders. Defensive end Osi Umenyiora said last Friday that Light's style of play "really gets under my skin." His comments prompted All-Pro left guard Logan Mankins to brush off allegations that the offensive line bends the rules.
Umenyiora was asked by NFL Network during Media Day if he had any well wishes for Light.
"Matt Light, please get well soon," Umenyiora said, smiling. "I hope to see you on Sunday. You are one of my greatest friends."
Vollmer also appears likely to return from back and foot injuries. Patriots offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia told 850-AM WEEI that Vollmer, who has missed the last seven games, will play in the Super Bowl. Rookie Nate Solder has been starting at right tackle in place of Vollmer.
Follow Steve Wyche on Twitter @wyche89
The Associated Press contributed to this report
