New England Patriots running back Shane Vereen (wrist) is close to returning to practice and the team considers him day-to-day, according to a report by Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald. Vereen broke his wrist in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills and has been recovering from surgery ever since.
Shane Vereen injury update: Patriots RB, returning to practice soon for fantasy owners
The Patriots running back is still a few weeks away from returning but he should get back to practicing soon. We break down the fantasy implications.


Fantasy impact: The New England Patriots run a running back by committee system for the most part with coach Bill Belichick currently entrusting Stevan Ridley. In general though, the Patriots’ backfield has been ripped apart by injuries this season.
Throughout the course of the year, they've seen the likes of Brandon Bolden and Legarrette Blount have their share. All in all, the Pats expect Vereen to be their number one running back when he does return to the lineup as he's a better runner and pass catcher than Ridley.
That said, there’s a good chance he’ll be eased into the line up in the early going as the Patriots have their bye week in Week 10, so fantasy owners who try to pick up Vareen now may have to wait until playoff time before he becomes truly effective.
• Week 8 fantasy football waiver wire: QB | RB | WR | TE | D/ST











