FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- The New England Patriots will continue to take a patient and conservative approach with running back Dion Lewis' recovery from a torn left ACL, but things are going well.

Some close to Lewis feel that he's about one month away from being able to play in a game, which naturally means that his availability for the season opener Sept. 11 in Arizona is looking good at this point (assuming no unexpected setbacks).

Lewis tore his ACL in a Nov. 8 game against the Washington Redskins and underwent surgery on Nov. 18. Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery.

While Lewis' progress is encouraging, the team is bringing him along slowly because there is little urgency at this time of year, which is consistent with their approach for most players coming back from surgery. So while Lewis' recovery has been on a promising track, his level of participation in OTAs might still be limited (if he participates at all) and there is a possibility that approach could also extend into the start of training camp.

Lewis' status check highlights one of the important areas for reporters to monitor as voluntary organized team activities take place around the NFL -- the health of previously injured players.

For example, receivers Julian Edelman (left foot) and Danny Amendola (left knee/ankle) are other players coming back from offseason surgery.

Media members have access to the Patriots' organized team activity on Thursday.