Stevan Ridley has an opportunity to regain his early-down role in the New England Patriots backfield with LeGarrette Blount now in Pittsburgh.
The question is whether he works his way back into coach Bill Belichick's good graces for a long-term contract during the final year of his rookie deal.
NFL Media's Albert Breer reports Ridley and the Patriots have had no talks on a new contract to this point.
It's hardly a surprise, as Ridley fell out of favor once again due to ongoing ball-security issues late last season.
Per Breer, a motivated Ridley is a little lighter and faster this offseason and is focusing on fixing his fumbling woes. With Blount out of the picture, Ridley is a good bet to lead New England's backfield in carries for a third consecutive season.
That's exactly where Belichick wants Ridley: highly motivated as the lead back entering a make-or-break season.
*The end to the latest Around The League Podcast is full of shock and awe. *
