Patriots feature varied group of running backs

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) - The New England Patriots are depending on young veterans to lead their running game.

Third-year pros Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen are back in camp along with newcomer LeGarrette Blount. He's entering his fourth NFL season after being traded by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in April.

Ridley is pleased with the variety of skills they possess. He's a slasher, Vereen can catch passes and Blount is a power runner.

At the end of Tuesday' practice, Ridley engaged in a brief shoving match with cornerback Kyle Arrington after Arrington knocked him to the ground following a reception. Both minimized the incident after the practice.

The Patriots have Wednesday off before resuming practice on Thursday.

Cox Media Group