The Pats could have themselves a new kick returner in 2009, and it could be running back Laurence Maroney. Today’s Boston Globe reports that Maroney could be returning kicks in 2009:

Patriots special teams coach Scott O’Brien hinted that the team could redeploy running back Laurence Maroney, coming back from a broken bone in his shoulder, as a kickoff returner to help offset the loss of Hobbs, who finished second in the NFL last season in return average (28.5 yards). “Anybody on the team is a potential option,” said O’Brien. “It’s what fits the team the best at the time. The better the options you have, the better you’ll be. We’ll get him going back there, too.”