New England Patriots fullback James Develin has retired from the NFL after playing seven seasons in the league. Develin is a converted defensive lineman that was having a successful NFL career until suffering a neck injury in 2019. The three-time Super Bowl champion has decided to call it a career after complications with his neck injury. This is unfortunate news, especially with the Pats likely turning to a more run-heavy offense after the departure of future Hall of Fame quarterbackTom Brady.
New England Patriots fullback James Develin (neck) was placed on Injured Reserve on Monday. While Develin wasn't at all fantasy relevant, his loss is notable for the Patriots ground game, most notably Sony Michel. Michel had another underwhelming performance in the easy Week 3 win over the Jets, rushing nine times for only 11 yards (1.2 yards per carry) and a touchdown. In three games this season, the second-year back is averaging a weak 2.4 yards per carry. The loss of Develin won't make it any easier for Michel to improve on the ground.