Jonas Gray had a huge game against the Colts last season, was late to practice one day the next week, and was basically never heard from again. He was set to back up LeGarrette Blount this season. But maybe things aren't over for him.
Blount was already suspended for Week 1 of the NFL season, and now he's got a sprained MCL, with a 2-4 week recovery timetable. He'll be ready for the start of the season, but this will likely sideline him for the entire preseason.
That gives Gray a chance to make his case to start. Obviously in Week 1, where he's competing with Brandon Bolden and a host of other running backs on New England's roster, but maybe to earn a larger role beyond that.
The Patriots are known as a passing team, but they scored 13 rushing touchdowns a year ago, and Blount, Gray and Stevan Ridley combined for nearly 1,300 rushing yards. They're probably not going to have Tom Brady at the start of the season, either.
Gray should make sure his alarm clock is working and he gets a wake-up call, and maybe he'll come into some early fantasy value this season.
--Andy Richardson
