In last night’s preseason finale against the Giants, Laurence Maroney made his first game appearance since the opener Aug. 12 and rushed a team-high nine times for 32 yards in a 20-17 loss.
The mystery behind Maroney’s lack of playing time has generated questions about the running back’s roster status. Patriots coach Bill Belichick has maintained the running backs have been on a rotation throughout the preseason, but that rotation has not always included Maroney.
Another possible explanation for Maroney’s lack of playing time could be injuries. According to a league source, Maroney has been dealing with a number of issues, including an abdominal strain and groin and ankle injuries.