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The New England Patriots welcomed the return of veteran wide receiver Julian Edelman this week after he completed his four-game suspension for violating the league's performance-enhancing drugs policy. The Patriots had to make a roster move in order to make room for Edelman, leading to the departure of running back Kenjon Barner.
Per Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk.
In order to make room for Edelman, the Patriots released running back Kenjon Barner. Barner’s had two stints with New England this season and he ran three times for 11 yards last weekend.
Barner played just one game with the Patriots this season, rushing for 11 yards on three attempts in last Sunday's 38-7 win over the Miami Dolphins. He was added to the roster twice this season to provide more depth to the running back position that now currently has James White and rookie Sony Michel as the only two active players at the position. Barner now hits the open market where he will have the chance to latch onto another team this season.
Meanwhile, the return of Edelman provides quarterback Tom Brady with arguably his favorite option in the passing game. He quickly put that connection in display Thursday night, as the 32-year-old hauled in seven of nine targets for 57 receiving yards, including three catches for 28 receiving yards on the opening drive.
The Patriots looked like a more potent offense with Edelman back in the fray, while Josh Gordon made his first real impact for the franchise, making two catches for 50 receiving yards and a touchdown. This, combined with their strong running game led by Michel, may give them the balance needed to push toward yet another Super Bowl this season.
