The New England Patriots opened up training camp yesterday and promptly placed running back LeGarrette Blount and defensive tackle Alan Branch on the active/non-football injury list. Second-year guard Caylin Hauptmann also found himself on the active/NFI list.
Blount "earned" the distinction by failing New England's conditioning test. He will not be cleared to participate in football activities until he is able to complete the test. He can be removed from the list at any time during training camp once that happens.
In the meantime, second-year back Jonas Gray will take the first team reps at running back. Given the uncertain situation around starting quarterback Tom Brady, though, the Patriots are likely hoping Blount can return soon. He has been remarkably productive in his separate stints with the Patriots.
In 2013, Blount carried the ball 153 times for 772 yards (5.0 YPC) and seven scores during the regular season. He rushed for an impressive 172 yards and four touchdowns during the post season. Last year, Blount quickly racked up 281 yards on just 60 carries (4.7 YPC) and three touchdowns in five games with the Pats. He ran for 189 yards and three touchdowns in New England's Super Bowl run.