FOXBORO - The New England Patriots were so impressive in their first seven wins of the season that even Richard Seymour was in awe.

The defensive lineman -- who returned to the field on Sunday, just four days after starting practice for the season -- watched the Pats from his home as they rolled to a 7-0 mark.

"It's been awesome to watch them," Seymour said. "A lot of my family has been calling me and we've been watching these guys do a great job [from home]. You just gotta take your hats off to them. The way they've been able to play just speaks volumes of the level of consistency [that we've played with] this year. ... I think we have a well-oiled machine and we are just looking to take it one game at a time."

Seymour began the season on the physically unable to perform list after offseason knee surgery, and got back to the practice field on Wednesday. New England activated him on Saturday for yesterday's game.

Though he did not start, he was on the field for the Redskins' second drive of the game.

"It has definitely been a long road," Seymour said. "It's been a journey, something that I haven't experienced in my career, but I think every year is different. I think it presents different challenges, and it was a tough road to say the least. There are a few people that I definitely have to thank: my wife being one of them for putting up with me for those seven weeks; the training staff for preparing me to get back out on the football field; my teammates for congratulating me back; and also the fans. They gave me a warm welcome back."

The five-time Pro Bowler said it was good to get some rust off and be back with his teammates, and he is now focused on getting better on a week-by-week basis.

-SHALISE MANZA YOUNG