The Patriots fear that Stevan Ridley may have torn his ACL
Coming off their second dominating performance, the New England Patriots may be faced with some tough news tomorrow. According to Albert Breer of NFL Network, the team fears that starting running back Stevan Ridley has torn his ACL following a knee injury.
Patriots RB Stevan Ridley will have an MRI tomorrow. It's a knee injury. Fear is that he tore his ACL.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 12, 2014
Prior to the knee injury, Ridley had played well below his career standards. On the season, Ridley rushed for 317 yards and 2 touchdowns, but on a below-average 3.8 yards per carry, the lowest of his career.
More from New England Patriots
- NFL rumors: Dalvin Cook suitor maintaining very ‘real’ interest
- Patriots backup plan for DeAndre Hopkins is a shot in the dark
- NFL rumors: Patriots screwed themselves with DeAndre Hopkins pursuit
- Bill O’Brien arrival did not end the road for one disliked Patriots coach
- 3 biggest mistakes from the NFL offseason
Even then, the loss of Ridley has the potential to greatly affect how the Patriots operate going forward.
With the offensive line in a serious decline, Bill Belichick has shaped the Patriots offense to play off the run instead of airing it as the team had once done in the past. If the Patriots are unable to continue to force defenses to play for the run, this team will have to put a huge emphasis on pass protection to keep Brady safe as he attempts to win games with his arm.
Luckily for New England, if Ridley is done for the season, they have arguably the best backup running back in football with Shane Vereen. Alongside Vereen, the Patriots also employ Brandon Bolden, a running back who has had spurts of brilliance in the past, as well as James White, a rookie who received high praise during training camp.
More information on Ridley’s injury will be revealed tomorrow.
More from FanSided
- MLB Trade Grades: Dodgers land Amed Rosario from Guardians
- Colorado gives Pac-12 a possible death knell with move to Big 12
- NFL rumors: Dalvin Cook suitor maintaining very ‘real’ interest
- Braves get dose of bad news on Max Fried as ace nears return
- LA Galaxy vs. Club Leon Leagues Cup match rescheduled for July 26