The New England Patriots placed fullback James Develin on the injured reserve (IR) list on Monday, per ESPN's Field Yates on Twitter.
The Patriots have placed Pro Bowl FB James Develin on injured reserve, per source. He’s a key part of their running game.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 23, 2019
The 31-year-old veteran in the backfield signed a two-year extension with the AFC East franchise back before the 2018 season. Develin missed Sunday's divisional matchup with the New York Jets—a resounding Patriots home victory to move them 3-0—and now it looks like the three-time Super Bowl champion fullback will be out for considerable time. Develin is dealing with a neck injury, per WCVB.
A one-time Pro-Bowl back, Develin had figured to be a crucial part of the offense. He would be a lead blocker for New England's ground game along with showing off versatility by playing tight end and blocking or occasionally working as a pass-catcher for Bill Belichick's offense. During the 2018 season, Develin recorded a dozen receptions for 61 yards.
Develin was also infrequently used on short down territory—piling his body forward to pick up first downs on every one of his six rushes last season.
During the Patriots' Week 3 win over the Jets, running back James White was also absent due to paternity leave (his wife went into labor). It's unclear if White will be away from the team much longer than missing a single game.
While the Patriots are a perfect 3-0 to start the season, there has been no lack of drama and injuries. Obviously the Antonio Brown saga is ongoing, and New England has also center David Andrews out for the season and rookie receiver N'Keal Harry is currently on the IR.
Jakob Johnson is the backup fullback for the Pats, an undrafted free agent signed in August.
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