James Develin

Develin's professional football career actually began in 2010, but he had to put in stints in the UFL and Arena League before the big leagues came calling. A converted defensive lineman, Develin turned in six seasons of lead blocking duty before his neck derailed 2019. Three months shy of his 32nd birthday, the three-time Super Bowl winner has made the wise decision to put his long-term health first. It's unfortunate timing for both him and the Patriots with a more run-heavy offense likely at least in the initial wake of Tom Brady's absence. 

The Patriots were eligible to designate two players to return off IR this season, and have used both designations on Isaiah Wynn (toe) and N'Keal Harry (ankle). As such, the veteran fullback will spend the rest of the 2019 season on IR, given that he's not a candidate to be released.

Develin sat out Sunday's win over the Jets due to an undisclosed neck injury suffered Week 2 versus Miami. It's possible that Develin could return midseason if he gets healthy, but that would restrict New England to bringing back only one of Isaiah Wynn (toe) or N'Keal Harry (ankle). The Patriots are a candidate to add another fullback to the roster, as the position plays an integral role in the team's running game.

Develin is managing a neck injury of undisclosed severity. The Patriots don't have another fullback on the roster and will operate without one during Sunday's tilt against the Jets. Develin operates primarily as a blocker in New England's offense, though he has logged two carries for three yards across two contests.