FOXBORO, Mass. — The New England Patriots opened a roster spot by releasing running back Tyler Gaffney on Thursday afternoon.
Gaffney’s release could be a sign of things to come for the Patriots, who have yet to activate running back Dion Lewis off the physically unable to perform list. Lewis has participated in two fully padded practices this week after beginning to practice two weeks ago. New England must activate Lewis by next Thursday for him to play this season and must activate the 26-year-old by Saturday at 4 p.m. for him to play Sunday night against the Seattle Seahawks.
Gaffney was signed to the Patriots’ 53-man roster off their practice squad prior to the team’s Week 8 matchup with the Buffalo Bills. The Stanford product began his NFL career in 2014 but has yet to appear in a game. He spent the 2014 and 2015 seasons on injured reserve.
The Patriots have an open spot on their practice squad, so Gaffney could return to the team if he clears waivers.
UPDATE (5:15 p.m.): Lewis is on track to play against the Seahawks, a source told the Boston Herald’s Jeff Howe.
Thumbnail photo via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
