Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano isn’t tipping his hand as to whether ILB Channing Crowder will make his return Monday night against the Patriots.

Sparano increased Crowder’s workload during practice Wednesday, according to The Palm Beach Post, but declined to discuss the linebacker’s status afterwards. Crowder returned to practice last week after missing more than a month because a groin injury.

The official injury report listed Crowder as taking part in a limited portion of practice Thursday.

Tim Dobbins and Bobby Carpenter have been filling in for Crowder, who will regain his starting spot alongside Karlos Dansby. Crowder’s return could be a key against the Patriots, allowing coaches to utilize Dansby’s coverage skills against tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski.

– Frank Tadych

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