Patriots running back Shane Vereen has the chance to be a breakout player this season. He should be considered a solid No. 3 running back in standard leagues and a potential No. 2 running back in PPR formats.
His Average Draft Position on CBSSports.com is No. 65 overall, which is about right for his expected role.
Vereen will replace Danny Woodhead, who left New England for San Diego. He should be in line for a big boost in production. Last year, Woodhead played on most passing downs in New England. He had 76 carries for 301 yards and four touchdowns and 40 catches for 446 yards and three touchdowns, and he finished as the No. 24 Fantasy running back in standard leagues.
Vereen is an upgrade over Woodhead in terms of talent, and hopefully he will earn Tom Brady and Bill Belichick's trust like Woodhead did. Keep in mind that the Patriots need help in their passing game with Rob Gronkowski (back) hurt and Aaron Hernandez, Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd gone. And Vereen caught seven passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns in the postseason last year.
He will also get his share of carries in tandem with Stevan Ridley, and he's a great running back to target in Round 6 in standard leagues and Round 5 in PPR formats.