Fantasy football owners, it's still early but if you're a bit confused about the running back situation in New England, don't worry. You're not the only one. Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount is also wondering what's going on.
"I don't know who our No. 1 guy is," Blount said last Thursday after OTAs. "Sometimes we start the game with Shane [Vereen]. Sometimes we started the game with Brandon [Bolden]. I just know I'm going to work my butt off to try to maximize my chances to be that guy."
That guy is always changing in a Bill Belichik led offense. New England has always been a challenge for fantasy owners looking for consistent RB production.
Last season, Vereen led all NE backs with a team-high 53.3 percent of the offensive snaps in the backfield (including playoffs). But Vereen, mostly known for his pass-catching ability, is now with the New York Giants. Stevan Ridley, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in October, is with the New York Jets.
That leaves Blount and Bolden as the two most likely options to lead the backfield. Blount was re-signed in November after being released by the Pittsburgh Steelers and made the most of his limited time with the Pats. He rushed for 281 yards and three scores in five regular season games and then an additional 189 yards and three touchdowns throughout the post-season. Bolden was barely used, getting just 28 carries all of last year.
"We have a good group," Blount said. "They learn on the fly. We're all getting a lot of stuff thrown at us. You just have to stay in your playbook, study, and make sure you don't fall behind.
"After we leave here [in OTAs], I'm going to have everything that I need to come into training camp. Everything is installed, all the new stuff. That will be big for me to make sure I stay on track for everything they want me to do."
