Patriots sign Steven Jackson: 5 Ripple effects

Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Ripple Effect #2 – Montee Ball could be on the practice squad for some time

Obviously, it’s too soon to tell who the Patriots will pencil-in on the active roster against the New York Jets on Sunday. But it’s reasonable to assume that the Patriots will go with the wily veteran, and there will be only so many running back slots on the game day roster.

Bolden and White are the only locks, as Bolden is a core special teamer and White is one of Brady’s favorite targets in the aerial attack.

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It’s hard to see Ball getting the nod over Iosefa after the rookie’s impressive play in Week 15. Iosefa has 30 more pounds on Ball, so he makes more sense in power situations.

Considering all the above, it really comes down to Ball and Jackson. The gut is telling me that Jackson will be given a chance against the Jets’ ferocious front seven over the former Bronco.

If that’s the case, then Ball could be stashed away on the practice squad for another week or two, or until another injury hits the backfield if the Patriots’ rash of injuries persist.

Next: 1. Belichick finally gets his guy