New England Patriots running back Laurence Maroney had a very promising rookie campaign in 2006. Even with getting hurt against the Detroit Lions back on December 3, he still came back for the season’s final two games and put up big numbers. But Maroney had off-sesason shoulder surgery which he is still recovering from, as was apparent in Mini-camp in which he basically watched from the sidelines. But even though New England is currently taking a conservative slow step approach right now the expectatations for the  regular season are very high. See, Maroney has gone from being the backup to starter Corey Dillon as a rookie, Dillon is now gone and Maroney if healthy will be the starting running back in the 2007 campaign. If he is not healthy the Patriots will turn very quickly into a one dimensional offense. 

With the off-season retooling the Patriots now have one of the best receiving corps in the NFL, as well as Super Bowl MVP quarterback Tom Brady. But the running game without Maroney leading the charge is suspect at best, Justise Hairston is an adequate backup but does not look like he is ready for Prime Time. And Kevin Faulk who has been with the team his entire nine year career, what ever Prime Time he ever had is definitely over. If the Patriots are to get back to the Super Bowl in February, they will need a healthy and effective Laurence Maroney in September.