Stevan Ridley was the second running back selected by the New England Patriots in the 2011 NFL draft.
After having to deal with a litany of uninspiring running back options in 2010 the Patriots have picked up two quality running backs whose styles of play complement each other very well.
Watching tape of Ridley may lead one to assume that he will be able to carry the load for the Patriots if needed and while he probably can he will more likely be called upon to play Thunder to Shane Vereen’s Lightning.
Ridley will assume the short-yardage role and will also have some opportunities in the red-zone. The Patriots brass have also indicated that they plan to use Ridley in late game situations when they are looking to kill some clock.
Fantasy Impact:
Stevan Ridley is in line for anywhere from 10-18 touches a week depending on whether or not the Patriots are protecting a lead.
Ridley has unique upside as he is the only back on the roster capable of pounding the rock 22+ times a game over a sixteen game stretch.
With that said he will be, as stated above, the change-of-pace/thunder back to Shane Vereen’s lightning.
Ridley appears to be in line for at least 150 carries on the season with a likely 4.7 yards per carry average.
Ridley is a bench option with flex2 upside in his rookie campaign.
