FOXBORO — With the retirement of running back James White, the New England Patriots find themselves looking for a solid third offense option.
Looks like the Patriots have found their man in mixed runner/receiver Ty Montgomery.
However, a possible injury in the Patriots’ preseason finale against the Las Vegas Raiders on Friday could derail Montgomery’s regular-season debut.
With just over six minutes left in the first quarter, Montgomery ran for four yards toward the Patriots’ 42-yard line. Unfortunately, his ankle appeared to turn in the opposite direction of his body and stayed on the field. Montgomery was helped to the sidelines by New England’s training staff, and he dropped his helmet in frustration. After a brief assessment, he was carted to the locker room.
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Montgomery had a solid performance in training camp and in the preseason to earn a spot. His special team acumen may help his case, as he took 48 percent of the snaps of the New Orleans Saints a year ago, both as a returner and in coverage of the team.
On the Patriots, he was expected to be comfortable with offensive options on the third offense, as well as a backcourt receiver. At his best, he can provide a solid contribution as a mixed catcher/running back and counter-kicker. The addition of Montgomery helped cushion the loss of running back Brandon Bolden and linebacker Jacob Johnson, both of whom signed with the Las Vegas Raiders. Both Bolden and Johnson are regular contributors on offense and special teams.
Montgomery’s status for the remainder of the game has not been provided.
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