FOXBORO -- Quick hits from the beginning of Patriots' mini-camp on Tuesday morning:

-- Deion Branch, as expected, is a no-show. The veteran wide receiver is upset with the status of his contract negotiations, and is staying away in protest.

-- Two of last season's injured starters, safety Rodney Harrison and center Dan Koppen, are here but not practicing.

-- Another, offensive tackle Matt Light, is on the field and is practicing with the first unit.

-- Running back Corey Dillon, who played last year despite a series of nagging injuries that hampered his effectiveness, has been impressive in the early going, running hard and, in contrast to last season, running well to his left.

-- The first offensive and defensive units went through plays early in the workout, and have been replaced now by the second units. Tom Brady, of course, quarterbacked the first team; the second team is being led by Matt Cassel.

Check back for updates later.

-- TOM E. CURRAN