Patriots running back Shane Vereen is slated to return Week 11 from the wrist injury that’s kept him out since the opener. He’ll serve as New England’s primary passing-down back, a role in which he thrives.
Vereen totaled 159 yards from scrimmage in the Week 1 win over Buffalo. He ran for 101 yards on 14 carries, caught seven passes for 58 yards and caused six missed tackles, according to Pro Football Focus. Consider that his replacement, Brandon Bolden, has forced five missed tackles all season.
Vereen's Week 1 performance didn't come out of the blue. Vereen posted 124 yards from scrimmage and scored three touchdowns in last season’s playoff win over Houston. The Pats like to split him out wide as a receiver, which they did five times vs. Buffalo.
Carolina is tough on opposing running backs, giving up the fifth-fewest Fantasy points, and Vereen could be rusty. But he's worth the risk. Stick him in your lineups as a low-end RB2 or high-end flex.