LeGarrette Blount injury: ramifications

Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports

3. Jonas Gray stands to be the starter for Week 1… and beyond.

Before yesterday’s injury development, Gray was preparing to start in Week 1 against the Steelers. Now, with the possibility of Blount missing additional games, Gray may see more time as the Patriots’ top running back.

Keep in mind that Gray appeared in only nine games last season (eight in the regular season and the AFC Championship Game). His 200-yard, four-touchdown outburst against the Indianapolis Colts in mid-November endeared him to the Patriots’ fan base, but he only rushed for 86 more yards all the way through the postseason.

So that begs the question: is Gray ready for the No. 1 spot? Like Blount, he is powerfully built and finishes runs with the best of them. It’s rare to see Gray get stopped in his tracks by anyone, as he usually falls forward for an extra half-yard.

Considering the Patriots’ unpredictable use of running backs, it’s possible that Gray will carry the balls 33 times in the opener and then see a scant few attempts the next week, even if Blount is healthy. But it’s reasonable to say that if Blount’s injury is as bad as it looked, Gray figures to be the Patriots’ top ball carrier heading into the regular season.

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