New England Patriots RB Shane Vereen placed on IR/DFR

New England Patriots running back Shane Vereen had a career day in the Patriots’ 23-21 season opening win over the Buffalo Bills Sunday afternoon. The third-year running back replaced starter Steven Ridley, who had issues with ball control. The former California star rushed for 101 yards on just 14 carries and had seven receptions for 58 yards.

Unfortunately for Vereen, the Patriots announced he broke his wrist Monday and on Tuesday, it was reported he would miss anywhere between a month and six weeks.

Apparently, the injury is worse than anyone thought.

According to Erik Scalavino, Vereen has been placed on injured reserve with a designation to return. It will be eight weeks before Vereen can get back on the practice field.

Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald also reported the news.

Vereen was originally drafted with the 56th pick of the 2010 draft – the same year the Patriots drafted Ridley. After getting just 15 carries in five games during his rookie season, Vereen played in 13 games in 2012, gaining 251 yards on 62 carries with three touchdowns. Vereen gained popularity among NFL fans after scoring an 83-yard touchdown against the New York Jets on Thanksgiving night last season. He also had 124 total yards and two touchdowns in a playoff win over the Houston Texans.

The Patriots will now turn back to Ridley, who had 46 yards on nine carries before being benched. Last season, Ridley rushed for 1,263 yards on 290 attempts and scored 12 touchdowns.