Examining New England Patriots rookies snap counts through Week 3

8. D.J. Foster (UFA signing)

Total snaps: 4

Percentage of total offensive snaps: 1.86%

Week 1 snaps: 0

Week 2 snaps: 4

Week 3 snaps: 0

Between the strong running of LeGarrette Blount and the change-of-pace already provided by James White, D.J. Foster has been seldom used thus far in the 2016 season, appearing in just four offensive snaps. In that action, Foster has rushed the ball once for seven yards and caught a pass for two yards.

Unfortunately for the Arizona State product, his chances of seeing action will only further dwindle upon the return of Dion Lewis in under three weeks. White isn’t going anywhere, so it will be Foster who the Patriots will most likely demote unless they decide to carry an additional running back.

The Foster project will not be entirely abandoned, however. There’s a reason the Patriots brought Foster on the active roster to start the year; he possesses a high ceiling in terms of receiving ability out of the backfield, so he could become a Shane Vereen/White/Lewis type down the road.

Next: 7. Elandon Roberts