FOXBORO — Patriots defensive tackle Milton Williams was absent for the start of Thursday’s practice, a possible sign he could miss this weekend’s game at Buffalo.

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Williams popped up on Wednesday’s practice report with a new ankle injury. He was listed as limited.

If Williams cannot play Sunday, the Patriots will take a major hit playing without their high-priced defensive tackle against the NFL’s second-highest scoring offense. Williams has two sacks, three QB hits and several hurries on the season, plus nine tackles. Veteran backup Khyris Tonga would likely replace him in the starting lineup.

Meanwhile, outside linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson (knee) and safety Jaylinn Hawkins (hamstring) both returned to practice after sitting out Wednesday. Hawkins hurt his hamstring in last weekend’s win over Carolina.

The Patriots will release their next injury report Thursday evening.