Laurence Maroney (1 Viewer)

[Ministry of Pain]

Some points to keep in mind...

-Going into season 5 but will only be 25 yrs old.

-New England has not done anything so far at RB...seems like a low priority at the moment for them.

-Fred Taylor...I gave him the benefit of the doubt last year and he got hurt...he's washed up and should retire but I'm guessing he won't.

-Sammy Morris should be gone...loved what the guy did when he had the opp but its over.

-What else do they have?

I know they can still make moves in the draft but I can't fathom them going RB in the 1st and even the 2nd they might wait to take a RB.

850-950 total yds in seasons 1, 2, and 4, 6-9 TDs over those 3 seasons/. Not much of a receiving threat. Should we even talk about him? Is there anything to ever get excited about in NE?

 

[David Yudkin]

Depends on who they add in the draft before he's even worth thinking about talking about.

 

[JetMaxx]

Thought he would be a complete stud coming out of U of Minn. Considering he was a late first rd pick, apparently its a congrats to the many teams that passed on him.

 

[David Yudkin]

But since MOP asked . . .

Q: Are the Patriots going to continue to make Laurence Maroney a big part of the running attack in spite of his injuries and lack of production? Will they pair him with an aging veteran past his prime like last year, or do they finally spend a high pick in the draft at the RB position in hopes of augmenting this position?

Mike Reiss: I could see this one headed in either direction. If a team steps up and offers something of value for Maroney, it wouldn't surprise me if there was a trade. If not, I see Maroney competing for playing time and being used as a complement with Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk and BenJarvus Green-Ellis. While I could see the Patriots drafting a running back with the future in mind, my sense is that their other needs will probably lead them away from an early pick at the position. Remember, the Patriots spent a high pick (No. 21 in 2006, which is higher than the pick they have this year) on Maroney, so going that route isn't a sure thing.

 

[Cassius]

I can't imagine they don't add someone in the draft, just a question of when. I don't think 2nd round is out of the question considering how many picks they have there.

 

[renesauz]

While Maroney has been far from impressive in his career, he hasn't been a total dud either...he's shown some sparks. He's been plagued by injuries which have lmited his ability to stay n the field, and limited his effectiveness once he's been there.

Maroney is largely overlooked or even blatantly ignored now in the FFB community, yet the numbers don't justify that. Unless New England spends an early pick at RB, he's a terrific investment at his current cost.

 

[David Yudkin]

While Maroney has been far from impressive in his career, he hasn't been a total dud either...he's shown some sparks. He's been plagued by injuries which have lmited his ability to stay n the field, and limited his effectiveness once he's been there.

Maroney is largely overlooked or even blatantly ignored now in the FFB community, yet the numbers don't justify that. Unless New England spends an early pick at RB, he's a terrific investment at his current cost.

The main problem for Maroney is that he was benched at the end of the season. He only got 5 carries against the Jags, none against the Texans, and had only 1 carry against the Ravens.Not exactly convincing evidence that he is going to play a bigger role in the offense this year. I still think the Pats will burn one of their many early picks on a RB, as I still do not think they have faith in Maroney.

 

[phthalatemagic]

Maroney has a job becuase he's cheap and isn't horrible. I think someone else said this a while ago. I can easily see the same thing as last year with Morris/Taylor/Maroney/BGE running things because there is no standout worth taking the job. It's going to be about Moss/Edelman/another receiver here in 2010.

 

[Holy Schneikes]

While Maroney has been far from impressive in his career, he hasn't been a total dud either...he's shown some sparks. He's been plagued by injuries which have lmited his ability to stay n the field, and limited his effectiveness once he's been there.

Maroney is largely overlooked or even blatantly ignored now in the FFB community, yet the numbers don't justify that. Unless New England spends an early pick at RB, he's a terrific investment at his current cost.

I don't think ignoring him is unjustified at this point. He was drafted in the first round, meaning the team had high hopes for him and gave him opportunities. Yet in a four year career he has not once broken 1000 COMBINED yards in a season. That's not a guy I'm going to invest in and hope he becomes startable. In some leagues, I'm not sure I'd even invest a roster spot on him at this point.The team has not viewed him as a starter for years, and this year will be no different. Of the five backs on the roster last year, Maroney had by far the lowest YPC among them. The only reason he had a "decent" season in 2009 (fueled by goal-line TDs) is that guys in front of him got hurt, and the team has a great offense. You can't count on that going forward. In fact, as others have mentioned, the team replaced him with a 33 year old scat back as the primary ball carrier in the playoffs. Shouldn't that tell you something?

 

[renesauz]

While Maroney has been far from impressive in his career, he hasn't been a total dud either...he's shown some sparks. He's been plagued by injuries which have lmited his ability to stay n the field, and limited his effectiveness once he's been there.

Maroney is largely overlooked or even blatantly ignored now in the FFB community, yet the numbers don't justify that. Unless New England spends an early pick at RB, he's a terrific investment at his current cost.

I don't think ignoring him is unjustified at this point. He was drafted in the first round, meaning the team had high hopes for him and gave him opportunities. Yet in a four year career he has not once broken 1000 COMBINED yards in a season. That's not a guy I'm going to invest in and hope he becomes startable. In some leagues, I'm not sure I'd even invest a roster spot on him at this point.The team has not viewed him as a starter for years, and this year will be no different. Of the five backs on the roster last year, Maroney had by far the lowest YPC among them. The only reason he had a "decent" season in 2009 (fueled by goal-line TDs) is that guys in front of him got hurt, and the team has a great offense. You can't count on that going forward. In fact, as others have mentioned, the team replaced him with a 33 year old scat back as the primary ball carrier in the playoffs. Shouldn't that tell you something?

Yep...it sure does. It tells me I can pick him up dirt cheap in RB starved leagues, leagues where all I really need is a second backup. You know...those leagues where if you need a RB off the waiver wire for an emergency start, the best you can hope for is a Leonard Weaver? He has comparable upside to the young RB's most fantasy teams are carrying in those spots, yet has 10X the chance of actually scoring a few points if I have to actually play him.Nowhere have I tried to argue that he's worth a high pick, or that I expect him to become a stud. What I'm arguing is that too many owners ignore quality depth pieces who still have at least some upside in favor of shots in the dark who are more likely to have zero value then startable value in the future.

Maroney is a depth piece you an aquire dirt cheap...not a player to "ignore".

 

[fsufan]

While Maroney has been far from impressive in his career, he hasn't been a total dud either...he's shown some sparks. He's been plagued by injuries which have lmited his ability to stay n the field, and limited his effectiveness once he's been there.

Maroney is largely overlooked or even blatantly ignored now in the FFB community, yet the numbers don't justify that. Unless New England spends an early pick at RB, he's a terrific investment at his current cost.

he was a solid starter from week 6 to16

this leagues scoring

1/PT 10 yards rush and rec

all TD 6PTs

no PPR

week 6- 19

week 7- 10

week 8- bye

week 9- 14

week 10- 10

week 11- 19

week 12- 20

week 13- 4

week 14- 10

week 15- 14

week 16- 2

 

[Holy Schneikes]

While Maroney has been far from impressive in his career, he hasn't been a total dud either...he's shown some sparks. He's been plagued by injuries which have lmited his ability to stay n the field, and limited his effectiveness once he's been there.

Maroney is largely overlooked or even blatantly ignored now in the FFB community, yet the numbers don't justify that. Unless New England spends an early pick at RB, he's a terrific investment at his current cost.

I don't think ignoring him is unjustified at this point. He was drafted in the first round, meaning the team had high hopes for him and gave him opportunities. Yet in a four year career he has not once broken 1000 COMBINED yards in a season. That's not a guy I'm going to invest in and hope he becomes startable. In some leagues, I'm not sure I'd even invest a roster spot on him at this point.The team has not viewed him as a starter for years, and this year will be no different. Of the five backs on the roster last year, Maroney had by far the lowest YPC among them. The only reason he had a "decent" season in 2009 (fueled by goal-line TDs) is that guys in front of him got hurt, and the team has a great offense. You can't count on that going forward. In fact, as others have mentioned, the team replaced him with a 33 year old scat back as the primary ball carrier in the playoffs. Shouldn't that tell you something?

Yep...it sure does. It tells me I can pick him up dirt cheap in RB starved leagues, leagues where all I really need is a second backup. He has comparable upside to the young RB's most teams are carrying in those spots, yet has 10X the chance of actually scoring a few points if I have to actually play him.Nowhere have I tried to argue that he's worth a high pick, or that I expect him to become a stud. What I'm arguing is that too many owners ignore quality depth pieces who still have at least some upside for shots in the dark who are more likely to have zero value then startable value in the future.

Maroney is a depth piece you an aquire dirt cheap...not a player to "ignore".

I guess it depends on your team and your league. I know that in my two main dynasty leagues, I would definitely not even carry him (let alone pay anything for him) in the one with medium depth roster (20 guys), and may not even in the league with 24 slots. If you don't have a quality backup 3rd/4th RB and don't have any decent prospects I guess he'd be worth looking at, but for me the odds are so great that he'll never again be (if he ever was) a viable fantasy starter, he just doesn't have any value to me.I'd rather hang on to a long-shot in that 4th/5th RB slot than a guy who in my mind has virtually NO chance to ever become a viable fantasy starter, and no certainty that he's even a viable fill-in. In fact, I don't think it's likely he'll be a viable fill-in, because I think the team will play a better back this year.

LAST YEAR, he might have been worth something in a pinch. But this year, I don't even see that modicum of value for him. I think last year was his last shot and he whiffed.

 

[John 14:6]

he was a solid starter from week 6 to16this leagues scoring1/PT 10 yards rush and recall TD 6PTsno PPRweek 6- 19week 7- 10week 8- byeweek 9- 14week 10- 10week 11- 19week 12- 20week 13- 4week 14- 10week 15- 14week 16- 2

He was a nice third RB for me behind AP and... Cedric Benson, another RB who looked like he was done early on. Also reminds me of Thomas Jones, who took a little while to get going as well.The difference between these two examples and Maroney, though, is they had to go to other teams before puting up good numbers. One RB I can think of who didn't switch teams but was looking like a bust early on is Larry Johnson. But then you can make the argument that's because he was behind Priest Holmes...Either way, I definitely think he's worth a shot where he'll be getting picked. With Taylor and Morris up there in age, Maroney certainly has a chance to be their top back. And, especially if he gets over the fumbling, he could score quite a few TDs in that offense...

 

[David Yudkin]

he was a solid starter from week 6 to16this leagues scoring1/PT 10 yards rush and recall TD 6PTsno PPRweek 6- 19week 7- 10week 8- byeweek 9- 14week 10- 10week 11- 19week 12- 20week 13- 4week 14- 10week 15- 14week 16- 2

He was a nice third RB for me behind AP and... Cedric Benson, another RB who looked like he was done early on. Also reminds me of Thomas Jones, who took a little while to get going as well.The difference between these two examples and Maroney, though, is they had to go to other teams before puting up good numbers. One RB I can think of who didn't switch teams but was looking like a bust early on is Larry Johnson. But then you can make the argument that's because he was behind Priest Holmes...Either way, I definitely think he's worth a shot where he'll be getting picked. With Taylor and Morris up there in age, Maroney certainly has a chance to be their top back. And, especially if he gets over the fumbling, he could score quite a few TDs in that offense...

As I said much earlier, can't tell much about Maroney until we see who is on their roster. Remember, the Pats were hurting for RBs in the weeks that he kepot scoring TDs. If he didn't get goal line carries, he would have been a lot less valuable.

 

[jwb]

While Maroney has been far from impressive in his career, he hasn't been a total dud either...he's shown some sparks. He's been plagued by injuries which have lmited his ability to stay n the field, and limited his effectiveness once he's been there.

Maroney is largely overlooked or even blatantly ignored now in the FFB community, yet the numbers don't justify that. Unless New England spends an early pick at RB, he's a terrific investment at his current cost.

I don't think ignoring him is unjustified at this point. He was drafted in the first round, meaning the team had high hopes for him and gave him opportunities. Yet in a four year career he has not once broken 1000 COMBINED yards in a season. That's not a guy I'm going to invest in and hope he becomes startable. In some leagues, I'm not sure I'd even invest a roster spot on him at this point.The team has not viewed him as a starter for years, and this year will be no different. Of the five backs on the roster last year, Maroney had by far the lowest YPC among them. The only reason he had a "decent" season in 2009 (fueled by goal-line TDs) is that guys in front of him got hurt, and the team has a great offense. You can't count on that going forward. In fact, as others have mentioned, the team replaced him with a 33 year old scat back as the primary ball carrier in the playoffs. Shouldn't that tell you something?

Yep...it sure does. It tells me I can pick him up dirt cheap in RB starved leagues, leagues where all I really need is a second backup. He has comparable upside to the young RB's most teams are carrying in those spots, yet has 10X the chance of actually scoring a few points if I have to actually play him.Nowhere have I tried to argue that he's worth a high pick, or that I expect him to become a stud. What I'm arguing is that too many owners ignore quality depth pieces who still have at least some upside for shots in the dark who are more likely to have zero value then startable value in the future.

Maroney is a depth piece you an aquire dirt cheap...not a player to "ignore".

I guess it depends on your team and your league. I know that in my two main dynasty leagues, I would definitely not even carry him (let alone pay anything for him) in the one with medium depth roster (20 guys), and may not even in the league with 24 slots. If you don't have a quality backup 3rd/4th RB and don't have any decent prospects I guess he'd be worth looking at, but for me the odds are so great that he'll never again be (if he ever was) a viable fantasy starter, he just doesn't have any value to me.I'd rather hang on to a long-shot in that 4th/5th RB slot than a guy who in my mind has virtually NO chance to ever become a viable fantasy starter, and no certainty that he's even a viable fill-in. In fact, I don't think it's likely he'll be a viable fill-in, because I think the team will play a better back this year.

LAST YEAR, he might have been worth something in a pinch. But this year, I don't even see that modicum of value for him. I think last year was his last shot and he whiffed.

See, this is what puzzles me about Maroney... there has to be something more to it, because on the field, I can't say he's whiffed. When he's been given carries, he's produced. He has gotten hurt a few times, but other times, there were almost puzzling benchings. Personally, I think there's a definite issue between him and BB. I also think Maroney benefits immensely from a trade / change of scenery.

 

[Holy Schneikes]

While Maroney has been far from impressive in his career, he hasn't been a total dud either...he's shown some sparks. He's been plagued by injuries which have lmited his ability to stay n the field, and limited his effectiveness once he's been there.

Maroney is largely overlooked or even blatantly ignored now in the FFB community, yet the numbers don't justify that. Unless New England spends an early pick at RB, he's a terrific investment at his current cost.

I don't think ignoring him is unjustified at this point. He was drafted in the first round, meaning the team had high hopes for him and gave him opportunities. Yet in a four year career he has not once broken 1000 COMBINED yards in a season. That's not a guy I'm going to invest in and hope he becomes startable. In some leagues, I'm not sure I'd even invest a roster spot on him at this point.The team has not viewed him as a starter for years, and this year will be no different. Of the five backs on the roster last year, Maroney had by far the lowest YPC among them. The only reason he had a "decent" season in 2009 (fueled by goal-line TDs) is that guys in front of him got hurt, and the team has a great offense. You can't count on that going forward. In fact, as others have mentioned, the team replaced him with a 33 year old scat back as the primary ball carrier in the playoffs. Shouldn't that tell you something?

Yep...it sure does. It tells me I can pick him up dirt cheap in RB starved leagues, leagues where all I really need is a second backup. He has comparable upside to the young RB's most teams are carrying in those spots, yet has 10X the chance of actually scoring a few points if I have to actually play him.Nowhere have I tried to argue that he's worth a high pick, or that I expect him to become a stud. What I'm arguing is that too many owners ignore quality depth pieces who still have at least some upside for shots in the dark who are more likely to have zero value then startable value in the future.

Maroney is a depth piece you an aquire dirt cheap...not a player to "ignore".

I guess it depends on your team and your league. I know that in my two main dynasty leagues, I would definitely not even carry him (let alone pay anything for him) in the one with medium depth roster (20 guys), and may not even in the league with 24 slots. If you don't have a quality backup 3rd/4th RB and don't have any decent prospects I guess he'd be worth looking at, but for me the odds are so great that he'll never again be (if he ever was) a viable fantasy starter, he just doesn't have any value to me.I'd rather hang on to a long-shot in that 4th/5th RB slot than a guy who in my mind has virtually NO chance to ever become a viable fantasy starter, and no certainty that he's even a viable fill-in. In fact, I don't think it's likely he'll be a viable fill-in, because I think the team will play a better back this year.

LAST YEAR, he might have been worth something in a pinch. But this year, I don't even see that modicum of value for him. I think last year was his last shot and he whiffed.

See, this is what puzzles me about Maroney... there has to be something more to it, because on the field, I can't say he's whiffed. When he's been given carries, he's produced. He has gotten hurt a few times, but other times, there were almost puzzling benchings. Personally, I think there's a definite issue between him and BB. I also think Maroney benefits immensely from a trade / change of scenery.

He whiffed on the field in my book. He averaged 3.9 YPC, journeyman Sammy Morris averaged 4.4, ancient Taylor averaged 4.3, Faulk averaged 5.4, backup Green-Ellis 4.4. I know YPC isn't everything, but its' something. And he lost a fumble three games in a row during his "good" stretch - that'll get you benched when you aren't lighting up the board.The year before, he averaged 3.3, and guys like Morris and Lamont Jordan are averaging 4.5+

Despite his pedigree, he just doesn't seem to bring as much to the table as everybody else they plug in there. Which again, is probably why he didn't play in the playoffs and why I don't have a lot of hope for him going forward. The team has given up on him, and I have too.

 

[Routilla]

Well, I find myself leaning towards LM as a later round pick. NE did not draft a RB did they? Also, Taylor has to be just about done. Faulk seems like the primary competition and he's really a 3rd down back. Thoughts?

 

[hostile]

Well, I find myself leaning towards LM as a later round pick. NE did not draft a RB did they? Also, Taylor has to be just about done. Faulk seems like the primary competition and he's really a 3rd down back. Thoughts?

I would draft him in redraft as a 4th/5th RB with a late round pick. In dynasty, I have been trying to acquire him on every team I have.NE did nothing in the draft or free agency. His competition get discounts on their breakfasts at Denny's. He is only 25 and has pedigree.The guy was a solid RB2/borderline RB1 last year when he was starting, until he had his fumble issues. If he secures the ball, and learns to take what a defence will give him rather than always trying to break off "the big one", I think he can surprise people this year.I can easily see him having a similar career arc to guys like Benson and TJones - underwhelming in his first stop, then taking off after a change of scenery. Hopefully though, the light will come on this year.

 

[Cassius]

Still sucks.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

It is impossible to figure out what the Patriots will do at RB, but Maroney is clearly the most talented back (and the only young one) and could have huge upside if he was to earn the starting job. Even with the instability of the Patriots RBs, Maroney has still been in the top 30 RBs (in FBG scoring, non PPR) in every full season he has played. With Taylor, Morris, and Faulk all being at least 33 years old, I see no reason why Maroney won't at least hold his value from previous years.

I see people saying he is worthless, don't waste your time, etc., and that may be true if you want a starter, but if you want depth, and considering he has been in the top 30 (non PPR) in all 3 of his full seasons, it seems to be a no brainer to take him as at worst a RB4

 

[Shutout]

Man, this one is a funny one but after really thinking about it, I think he's a realy good value and a good player to have and that most of what goes on with him is the Patriots and not him.

The Patriots always seem to have seasons where they run it a ton and some guy with less talent than Maroney puts up great numbers (A. Smith) and then they go back and toss it a ton. Maybe its a "run" year; especially with Welker hurting early.

The Pats didn't address RB at all, all the competition is pretty rickety old now and there is even speculation that Taylor may be cut. If the Pats WILL run, Maroney is definitely the right age/size/skill to have some production.

I like him also because:

-He's pretty cheap

-He's young

-He's going to be a FA after the season so in dynasty formats, this might be a great early investment for later. Let's just say that next year he leaves and goes to, say, the Dolphins, the Redskins, or even to the Panthers as the lesser duo with Stewart (if Dwill leaves as a FA). I like his opportunity a lot on teams that are known to runs some ball. Heck, maybe even the Bengals...next year.

-Last year, for the second half of most league's fantasy seasons, he was a top 12 back in my league's scoring. So I think he obviously CAN do the job, given opportunity and that suggests to me there is some value there.

I think he really HAS lived up to standards, just not the very lofty standards a lot of people expected from him on their FF teams and that's why, in general, we read a lot of him as if he's a bust. A lot fo guys that expected top 10 performacne are probably tired of him right now but I think he is a real good candidate to be a late bloomer and would like him on my dynasty teams. I think he's a legit 3rd/flex guy this year and probably a bit better next year. I don't expect him to ever be ADP or anything, but he could be a good cheap investment that pays for itself several times over.

 

[David Yudkin]

Nothing has changed, so expect what we have seen all along. He's not going to win the job outright and will only be relevant if 1) he's healthy, 2) the other RBs get hurt, 3) he holds onto the ball and regains the trust of the coaching staff, and 4) the Pats game plan for that particular week does not involve 50 passes.

So if there are weeks where all of those occur, he would be a decent fantasy option. Just don't expect that to happen across 16 weeks. Depending upon when you have to draft him, he could be a decent value pick or a wasted pick. I live in New England, so he will go way sooner locally then I would want to take him.

 

[hostile]

Man, this one is a funny one but after really thinking about it, I think he's a realy good value and a good player to have and that most of what goes on with him is the Patriots and not him.The Patriots always seem to have seasons where they run it a ton and some guy with less talent than Maroney puts up great numbers (A. Smith) and then they go back and toss it a ton. Maybe its a "run" year; especially with Welker hurting early.The Pats didn't address RB at all, all the competition is pretty rickety old now and there is even speculation that Taylor may be cut. If the Pats WILL run, Maroney is definitely the right age/size/skill to have some production.I like him also because:-He's pretty cheap-He's young-He's going to be a FA after the season so in dynasty formats, this might be a great early investment for later. Let's just say that next year he leaves and goes to, say, the Dolphins, the Redskins, or even to the Panthers as the lesser duo with Stewart (if Dwill leaves as a FA). I like his opportunity a lot on teams that are known to runs some ball. Heck, maybe even the Bengals...next year. -Last year, for the second half of most league's fantasy seasons, he was a top 12 back in my league's scoring. So I think he obviously CAN do the job, given opportunity and that suggests to me there is some value there.I think he really HAS lived up to standards, just not the very lofty standards a lot of people expected from him on their FF teams and that's why, in general, we read a lot of him as if he's a bust. A lot fo guys that expected top 10 performacne are probably tired of him right now but I think he is a real good candidate to be a late bloomer and would like him on my dynasty teams. I think he's a legit 3rd/flex guy this year and probably a bit better next year. I don't expect him to ever be ADP or anything, but he could be a good cheap investment that pays for itself several times over.

Obviously, the Pats backfield is a pure committee, which presents problems in of itself when assessing a player's value. I can understand why people think he has no value, in that he hasnt lived up to the hype of his draft position, but he is still a very capable NFL back.When he was starting in Weeks 6 to 15 last year, he was RB 15 in most "standard" PPR leagues in terms of fantasy points, RB14 in terms of stats.Over that stretch he had 9 TDs - one less than MJD and tied Chris Johnson (along with LT and Weedliams). As the starter in those weeks, he had those 9 TDs on only 157 attempts vs MJD's 203 and CJ's 223.Unfortunately, over that time frame he also had 3 lost fumbles, but so did Forte, Greene, Slaton, Hightower, and the mighty ADP. Unlike those teams though, Darth BB didnt give Maroney a pass and continue to give him carries (well, Kubiak yanked Slaton, but Slaton was never really RB1 last year).The point I'm trying to make is that if Maroney gets the RB1 gig in NE or wherever he ends up after his contract, he can be a high RB2/low RB1, so to say he doesnt have any value is nuts.For this year though, taking him as an RB2 in redraft will most likely be a disappointment. Taking him as a depth/flex pick? You could do a LOT worse. In dynasty, he can be had for peanuts, but the payoff could be big after this year.

 

[Boston]

Nothing has changed, so expect what we have seen all along. He's not going to win the job outright and will only be relevant if 1) he's healthy, 2) the other RBs get hurt, 3) he holds onto the ball and regains the trust of the coaching staff, and 4) the Pats game plan for that particular week does not involve 50 passes.So if there are weeks where all of those occur, he would be a decent fantasy option. Just don't expect that to happen across 16 weeks. Depending upon when you have to draft him, he could be a decent value pick or a wasted pick. I live in New England, so he will go way sooner locally then I would want to take him.

Agreed with one exception...I don't think anyone in New England wants him...because they watch him 16 games a year they realize more than anyone the enigma he is.One other thing...Taylor actually looked good in the limited time before his injury...whether he can stay healthy is a huge question mark but he did look good pre-injury.As a Patriot fan I find it incredibly frustrating they did not add another RB into the fold...even a fourth-fifth rounder would give them a chance to find a diamond-in-the-rough...this is a backfield that does not scare defenses and will allow them to focus on Brady and the passing game while knowing no one is really gonna make them pay out of the backfield.

 

[David Yudkin]

There's a reason why Pats fans have been disappointed in Maroney from an NFL and fantasy perspective. While fantasy scoring is not the end all of barometers, since coming into the league in 2006, he ranks 28th in total fantasy points scored for RBs. In PPR leagues, 84 RBs have caught more passes than he did in that time.

Since Maroney was drafted, 9 backs have more total yards from scrimmage than he does. However, given that there are guys just behind him drafted in the same year or players that have played a lot fewer games than he has because they were drafted in later years, that's not really all that great.

I've been saying for years that Maroney is not a great fit in New England. It will be interestin what role he could fill if he ends up on another team . . .

 

[Boston]

There's a reason why Pats fans have been disappointed in Maroney from an NFL and fantasy perspective. While fantasy scoring is not the end all of barometers, since coming into the league in 2006, he ranks 28th in total fantasy points scored for RBs. In PPR leagues, 84 RBs have caught more passes than he did in that time.Since Maroney was drafted, 9 backs have more total yards from scrimmage than he does. However, given that there are guys just behind him drafted in the same year or players that have played a lot fewer games than he has because they were drafted in later years, that's not really all that great.I've been saying for years that Maroney is not a great fit in New England. It will be interestin what role he could fill if he ends up on another team . . .

Could not agree more...I have never understood why they want to use him like Corey Dillon when he's a guy who's a better fit in the open-space. It's seems so obvious to everyone but the Pats coaching staff. I'm not sure the kid is committed to being a big-time RB but I do think if it's ever going to happen it will be in another uniform.

 

[David Yudkin]

Nothing has changed, so expect what we have seen all along. He's not going to win the job outright and will only be relevant if 1) he's healthy, 2) the other RBs get hurt, 3) he holds onto the ball and regains the trust of the coaching staff, and 4) the Pats game plan for that particular week does not involve 50 passes.So if there are weeks where all of those occur, he would be a decent fantasy option. Just don't expect that to happen across 16 weeks. Depending upon when you have to draft him, he could be a decent value pick or a wasted pick. I live in New England, so he will go way sooner locally then I would want to take him.

Agreed with one exception...I don't think anyone in New England wants him...because they watch him 16 games a year they realize more than anyone the enigma he is.One other thing...Taylor actually looked good in the limited time before his injury...whether he can stay healthy is a huge question mark but he did look good pre-injury.As a Patriot fan I find it incredibly frustrating they did not add another RB into the fold...even a fourth-fifth rounder would give them a chance to find a diamond-in-the-rough...this is a backfield that does not scare defenses and will allow them to focus on Brady and the passing game while knowing no one is really gonna make them pay out of the backfield.

This offseason was pretty telling in terms of how the Pats see their offense coming together. They signed Holt, Patten, and Crumpler and drafted Price, Hernandez, and Gronkowski.I think what people sometimes forget to realize is that Maroney when Maroney gets the ball more than a handsul of times, it's not really by choice or design . . . it's out of necessity because there are other guys banged up.I would be have been more enthused over the years had the Pats tried Maroney as the lead guy every year and then filtered carries to others if he were banged up or stumbled. But it's always the other way around. Others need to get hurt or falter for Maroney to get a bigger role, and that rubs me the wrong way.

 

[David Yudkin]

You also have to wonder why Maroney couldn't really beat out guys like Dillon, Taylor, Faulk, Morris, Jordan, etc. for more touches and why he seems to always be in the middle or the back of the depth chart.

People are saying that they see the guys on the roster and Maroney only needs to beat them out and there's really not much competition. That's been true since he suited up. None of those guys were Barry Sanders or Eric Dickerson in their prime.

I agree the Pats utilization of Maroney has been bad, but you have to think that Maroney bears some repsonsibility in either work ethic, conditioning, play retention, etc. as well. The overall marriage of the Pats and Maroney has always been a bit off.

 

[hostile]

Nothing has changed, so expect what we have seen all along. He's not going to win the job outright and will only be relevant if 1) he's healthy, 2) the other RBs get hurt, 3) he holds onto the ball and regains the trust of the coaching staff, and 4) the Pats game plan for that particular week does not involve 50 passes.

So if there are weeks where all of those occur, he would be a decent fantasy option. Just don't expect that to happen across 16 weeks. Depending upon when you have to draft him, he could be a decent value pick or a wasted pick. I live in New England, so he will go way sooner locally then I would want to take him.

Agreed with one exception...I don't think anyone in New England wants him...because they watch him 16 games a year they realize more than anyone the enigma he is.One other thing...Taylor actually looked good in the limited time before his injury...whether he can stay healthy is a huge question mark but he did look good pre-injury.

As a Patriot fan I find it incredibly frustrating they did not add another RB into the fold...even a fourth-fifth rounder would give them a chance to find a diamond-in-the-rough...this is a backfield that does not scare defenses and will allow them to focus on Brady and the passing game while knowing no one is really gonna make them pay out of the backfield.

This offseason was pretty telling in terms of how the Pats see their offense coming together. They signed Holt, Patten, and Crumpler and drafted Price, Hernandez, and Gronkowski.I think what people sometimes forget to realize is that Maroney when Maroney gets the ball more than a handsul of times, it's not really by choice or design . . . it's out of necessity because there are other guys banged up.

I would be have been more enthused over the years had the Pats tried Maroney as the lead guy every year and then filtered carries to others if he were banged up or stumbled. But it's always the other way around. Others need to get hurt or falter for Maroney to get a bigger role, and that rubs me the wrong way.

A very vaild point, David. Perhaps this is more the "poor utilization" vein rather than lack of talent/work ethic/play retention?

 

[John 14:6]

Nothing has changed, so expect what we have seen all along. He's not going to win the job outright and will only be relevant if 1) he's healthy, 2) the other RBs get hurt, 3) he holds onto the ball and regains the trust of the coaching staff, and 4) the Pats game plan for that particular week does not involve 50 passes.

So if there are weeks where all of those occur, he would be a decent fantasy option. Just don't expect that to happen across 16 weeks. Depending upon when you have to draft him, he could be a decent value pick or a wasted pick. I live in New England, so he will go way sooner locally then I would want to take him.

Agreed with one exception...I don't think anyone in New England wants him...because they watch him 16 games a year they realize more than anyone the enigma he is.One other thing...Taylor actually looked good in the limited time before his injury...whether he can stay healthy is a huge question mark but he did look good pre-injury.

As a Patriot fan I find it incredibly frustrating they did not add another RB into the fold...even a fourth-fifth rounder would give them a chance to find a diamond-in-the-rough...this is a backfield that does not scare defenses and will allow them to focus on Brady and the passing game while knowing no one is really gonna make them pay out of the backfield.

This offseason was pretty telling in terms of how the Pats see their offense coming together. They signed Holt, Patten, and Crumpler and drafted Price, Hernandez, and Gronkowski.I think what people sometimes forget to realize is that Maroney when Maroney gets the ball more than a handsul of times, it's not really by choice or design . . . it's out of necessity because there are other guys banged up.

I would be have been more enthused over the years had the Pats tried Maroney as the lead guy every year and then filtered carries to others if he were banged up or stumbled. But it's always the other way around. Others need to get hurt or falter for Maroney to get a bigger role, and that rubs me the wrong way.

A very vaild point, David. Perhaps this is more the "poor utilization" vein rather than lack of talent/work ethic/play retention?

Hasn't he dealt with injuries too, though?

 

[Shutout]

You also have to wonder why Maroney couldn't really beat out guys like Dillon, Taylor, Faulk, Morris, Jordan, etc. for more touches and why he seems to always be in the middle or the back of the depth chart.People are saying that they see the guys on the roster and Maroney only needs to beat them out and there's really not much competition. That's been true since he suited up. None of those guys were Barry Sanders or Eric Dickerson in their prime.I agree the Pats utilization of Maroney has been bad, but you have to think that Maroney bears some repsonsibility in either work ethic, conditioning, play retention, etc. as well. The overall marriage of the Pats and Maroney has always been a bit off.

The answer to that, it seems to me, is, again, its more about the Pats than Maroney. The Pats don't seem to like him enough to use him but they don't DISLIKE him enough to replace him. That in itself should suggest to us that they see him as capable; otherwise, Patriot Bill would have cut him a long time ago. Its almost like looking back and saying "Why couldn't Priest Holmes ever get time when JLEW was there?" Both players had something to offer but the coaches chose one over the other. All Holmes ever did once he got out of Baltimore was go to a worse team and have one of the best 2-3 year runs ever. That's not indicative of the talent of the player, but of the opportunity.To me, it just seems like that opportunity isn't ever there for Maroney in New England until it becomes necessary. They flood the backfield to where no one ever gets a chance to be a bell cow but as players get banged up, he gets pushed into service. But then, as mentioned before, UNLIKE a lot of other teams when a player has a bad game or fumbles, Maroney is pulled out when they have other options. To me, that's all decision and not much to do with overall talent. The PAts seem to be a team that is really comfortable throwing a lot so if they don't like the way its going on the ground, they just go another way. Bill seems to crave mega-versatility from his players so its easier to find more deminisions with the other RBs when they are healthy or the passing game.Overall though, I can recall watching Maroney play and doing some great things when he has had a chance. I tend to think that the Pats use him as token "Ok, we'll give this running game some attention...to keep things honest". I'm thinking more and more that when Maroney leaves and goes somewhere else, his better days will be ahead. I'm not really confident that ANY player would be drafted and MAKE that his job where the offense ran through him. It would take a very high profile rookie that the Pats spent a high pick on and they don't have the history for that. I can't see them bringing in a big name free agent for that either.

 

[David Yudkin]

You also have to wonder why Maroney couldn't really beat out guys like Dillon, Taylor, Faulk, Morris, Jordan, etc. for more touches and why he seems to always be in the middle or the back of the depth chart.People are saying that they see the guys on the roster and Maroney only needs to beat them out and there's really not much competition. That's been true since he suited up. None of those guys were Barry Sanders or Eric Dickerson in their prime.I agree the Pats utilization of Maroney has been bad, but you have to think that Maroney bears some repsonsibility in either work ethic, conditioning, play retention, etc. as well. The overall marriage of the Pats and Maroney has always been a bit off.

The answer to that, it seems to me, is, again, its more about the Pats than Maroney. The Pats don't seem to like him enough to use him but they don't DISLIKE him enough to replace him. That in itself should suggest to us that they see him as capable; otherwise, Patriot Bill would have cut him a long time ago. Its almost like looking back and saying "Why couldn't Priest Holmes ever get time when JLEW was there?" Both players had something to offer but the coaches chose one over the other. All Holmes ever did once he got out of Baltimore was go to a worse team and have one of the best 2-3 year runs ever. That's not indicative of the talent of the player, but of the opportunity.To me, it just seems like that opportunity isn't ever there for Maroney in New England until it becomes necessary. They flood the backfield to where no one ever gets a chance to be a bell cow but as players get banged up, he gets pushed into service. But then, as mentioned before, UNLIKE a lot of other teams when a player has a bad game or fumbles, Maroney is pulled out when they have other options. To me, that's all decision and not much to do with overall talent. The PAts seem to be a team that is really comfortable throwing a lot so if they don't like the way its going on the ground, they just go another way. Bill seems to crave mega-versatility from his players so its easier to find more deminisions with the other RBs when they are healthy or the passing game.Overall though, I can recall watching Maroney play and doing some great things when he has had a chance. I tend to think that the Pats use him as token "Ok, we'll give this running game some attention...to keep things honest". I'm thinking more and more that when Maroney leaves and goes somewhere else, his better days will be ahead. I'm not really confident that ANY player would be drafted and MAKE that his job where the offense ran through him. It would take a very high profile rookie that the Pats spent a high pick on and they don't have the history for that. I can't see them bringing in a big name free agent for that either.

A case could be made that the "very high profile rookie" was Maroney, aftera ll he was a first round pick.I've seen Maroney play his entire career, and while it is true that on occasion he plays well and has some good games, there are other times where he looks horrible. While he didn't fumble a lot last year, he fumbled at the wrong times (like right near the goal line).As mentioned in a dozen other threads, he likes to dance and juke in the backfield and ofter will lose yardage when all the Pats needed were a couple of yards. So instead of a 1st down on 2nd and 2, it would turn into 3rd and 6. I understand he has been dinged up some, but it appears at times that he really doesn't want to get hit and sometimes has ducked out of bounds a yard from a first down rather than gut it out.These are perfect examples of things that have driven the coaching staff nuts. Mix in all the nagging injuries and it's easy to see why they haven't made a real concerted effort to make Maroney their bell cow.This is not to say that Maroney couldn't be good or does not have the talent to succeed, but if he does the same types of things elsewhere (even if teams use him better), I suspect he would not see a full time role.I also have to wonder if they think Maroney can't pick up blitzes or block, because he almost always comes out on passing downs. Clearly they like Faulk in those situations, but you would think they would want to change things up sometimes to keep teams honest.The reason the Pats HAVE kept him around is not so much that he's been great and he hasn't been terrrible, it's mostly because he's inexpensive. He didn't cost much, and they can stomach his warts and flaws and spotty production for a million bucks or so a year.

 

[Adebisi]

But since MOP asked . . .Q: Are the Patriots going to continue to make Laurence Maroney a big part of the running attack in spite of his injuries and lack of production? Will they pair him with an aging veteran past his prime like last year, or do they finally spend a high pick in the draft at the RB position in hopes of augmenting this position?Mike Reiss: I could see this one headed in either direction. If a team steps up and offers something of value for Maroney, it wouldn't surprise me if there was a trade. If not, I see Maroney competing for playing time and being used as a complement with Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk and BenJarvus Green-Ellis. While I could see the Patriots drafting a running back with the future in mind, my sense is that their other needs will probably lead them away from an early pick at the position. Remember, the Patriots spent a high pick (No. 21 in 2006, which is higher than the pick they have this year) on Maroney, so going that route isn't a sure thing.

Good to see you giving credit where it's (long over)due.

 

[captain_amazing]

This offseason was pretty telling in terms of how the Pats see their offense coming together. They signed Holt, Patten, and Crumpler and drafted Price, Hernandez, and Gronkowski.I think what people sometimes forget to realize is that Maroney when Maroney gets the ball more than a handsul of times, it's not really by choice or design . . . it's out of necessity because there are other guys banged up.

I would be have been more enthused over the years had the Pats tried Maroney as the lead guy every year and then filtered carries to others if he were banged up or stumbled. But it's always the other way around. Others need to get hurt or falter for Maroney to get a bigger role, and that rubs me the wrong way.

A very vaild point, David. Perhaps this is more the "poor utilization" vein rather than lack of talent/work ethic/play retention?

I agree as well. I also find it interesting that BB had weekly personal meetings with Maroney which was, what I assume, to get him ready for the running game plan for that week's opponent. I'm not sure with what regularity other head coaches meet with their RB or RBs , but I assume that its not weekly, which tells me that Maroney has had trouble understanding the game plan in the past, and needed 1-on-1 time in order to adequately adjust. Of course, those meetings could have been for completely other things. Also, Maroney has admitted this past June that he has had maturity issues in the past, and that he needs to "grow up." If by "grow up" he means that he will quit his dancing lessons, then I am all for it!

 

[Cassius]

a good player to have and that most of what goes on with him is the Patriots and not him.The Patriots always seem to have seasons where they run it a ton and some guy with less talent than Maroney puts up great numbers (A. Smith) and then they go back and toss it a ton. Maybe its a "run" year; especially with Welker hurting early.

Smith has been out of NE almost a decade. I'm not sure what he's supposed to have to do with what NE "always seems" to do. And as has been covered ad nauseum, the Patriots have a fine running game. Fantasy players have a misconception that the Patriots never run the ball just because they don't produce a fantasy starter. Maroney doesn't put up the numbers because he doesn't earn enough carries because it takes him 47 steps to get to the line of scrimmage, he's a bad decision maker, and he fumbles in key situations.

but he is still a very capable NFL back.

No, he's not. Watch games.

 

[hostile]

but he is still a very capable NFL back.

No, he's not. Watch games.

He is. I have.

 

[Cassius]

but he is still a very capable NFL back.

No, he's not. Watch games.

He is. I have.

Then you haven't watched enough. There's a reason why when Maroney is discussed, Patriot fans, usually some of the most ardent and annoying homers in the galaxy, are his biggest critics. I'll just leave it at that.

 

[cmv5]

I disagree with a lot of what is being said here. If you watched him last year, he ran off about 11 straight games where he looked like a true NFL running back. He started to show some patience and he looked like he had a nose for the endzone. His issues are pass protection and fumbling (week 16 he got benched). I think if he can get the fumbling under control that he is clearly the best back on the team. It remains to be seen if he will even be trusted again.

 

[KellysHeroes]

There was a lot of times last yr he looked good, then he would fumble the ball.

But at his price he worth rolling the dice.

 

[Shock6822]

He's still going to get his chances this year. Even if it's 15 touches a game, like people have mentioned, it's not like we have much else. I think he progressed a bit last year in terms of dancing around a little less, but he still has plenty of flaws he needs to overcome. I do think it's a positive that a new RB hasn't been brought in, and the we drafted a WR who excels at run blocking, drafted a TE who's a good run blocker, and picked up an FA TE who's only asset is blocking. With Welker also a question mark, Moss getting older, and the young WRs still learning, I won't be surprised if the Pats try to utilize more smashmouth type football that we were used to in the early 2000s. However, the Mankins situation is also key for Maroney's stats - he's replaceable, but obviously, Kaczur moving over or Ohrnberger/Connolly sliding in would mean a downgrade across the board for Pats fantasy players.

 

[Adebisi]

If you watched him last year, he ran off about 11 straight games where he looked like a true NFL running back.

This never happened.

 

[RTB1]

but he is still a very capable NFL back.

No, he's not. Watch games.

He is. I have.

Then you haven't watched enough. There's a reason why when Maroney is discussed, Patriot fans, usually some of the most ardent and annoying homers in the galaxy, are his biggest critics. I'll just leave it at that.

Same can be said about Terry Bradshaw and the Steelers fans, Eli Manning and the Giants fans, Thomas Jones and the Cardinal fans, Cedric Benson and the Bears fans, etc.All of those guys went on to have success later.I'm not saying that Maroney will succeed, but it's hard to unequivocally say that he will not based purely upon the general feeling towards him of the Patriots faithful.

 

[Todem]

He represents some really good value at his ADP and in dynasty I have been able to grab him as a RB4 for peanuts.

He is their best back on the roster and last season helped one of my squads to a championship. Yes Maroney helped. I don't think savey owners are looking for him to give big numbers....but to get 10-12 points from a guy you plug in as RB3 is quite important over the course of a season. Maroney was able to put up many productive weeks last season and he was by all intensive purposes a forgotten man in the fantasty world.

 

[David Yudkin]

He represents some really good value at his ADP and in dynasty I have been able to grab him as a RB4 for peanuts.He is their best back on the roster and last season helped one of my squads to a championship. Yes Maroney helped. I don't think savey owners are looking for him to give big numbers....but to get 10-12 points from a guy you plug in as RB3 is quite important over the course of a season. Maroney was able to put up many productive weeks last season and he was by all intensive purposes a forgotten man in the fantasty world.

The problem with Maroney is that he's been the best, most skilled RB on the Patriots since the day he showed up. Yet he still has not earned the starting job and for all intents and purpose is in a true RBBC. As outlined earlier, Maroney COULD do well at times in NE if everyone else is hurt AND Maroney is healthy. But in 64 games that the Pats have played since Maroney was drafted, he's put up 10 fantasy points in a game 20 times. Admittedly, he was banged up himself a number of times, but the fact of the matter is that you can't rely on him consistently as a fantasy RB3. Last year was his best fantasy season, as he scored 10 fantasy points in a game 8 times. Which of course means he didn't score 10 points in a game 8 times. But on closer analysis, he was able to accomplish that by scoring a bunch of TD, and he's really not the Pats goal line back. If someone else gets the TDs (and they likely could) and someone else gets the receptions (which usually is the case), Maroney doesn't have a lot of fantasy value. He's a decent fantasy option when he's the only back that can go for New England, but when everyone else is active and playing he's not all that great. That could all change if he switched teams and his new franchise wanted him to be a bell cow, but we can debate that if and when that happens.

 

[TWP]

He represents some really good value at his ADP and in dynasty I have been able to grab him as a RB4 for peanuts.He is their best back on the roster and last season helped one of my squads to a championship. Yes Maroney helped. I don't think savey owners are looking for him to give big numbers....but to get 10-12 points from a guy you plug in as RB3 is quite important over the course of a season. Maroney was able to put up many productive weeks last season and he was by all intensive purposes a forgotten man in the fantasty world.

The problem with Maroney is that he's been the best, most skilled RB on the Patriots since the day he showed up. Yet he still has not earned the starting job and for all intents and purpose is in a true RBBC. As outlined earlier, Maroney COULD do well at times in NE if everyone else is hurt AND Maroney is healthy. But in 64 games that the Pats have played since Maroney was drafted, he's put up 10 fantasy points in a game 20 times. Admittedly, he was banged up himself a number of times, but the fact of the matter is that you can't rely on him consistently as a fantasy RB3. Last year was his best fantasy season, as he scored 10 fantasy points in a game 8 times. Which of course means he didn't score 10 points in a game 8 times. But on closer analysis, he was able to accomplish that by scoring a bunch of TD, and he's really not the Pats goal line back. If someone else gets the TDs (and they likely could) and someone else gets the receptions (which usually is the case), Maroney doesn't have a lot of fantasy value. He's a decent fantasy option when he's the only back that can go for New England, but when everyone else is active and playing he's not all that great. That could all change if he switched teams and his new franchise wanted him to be a bell cow, but we can debate that if and when that happens.

This. Plus when Sammy Morris was healthy he was basically a must-start as RB2/RB3 (an on his way to a monster game when he got hurt and missed the second half plus essentially the rest of the season). Maroney has never been as solid as Morris was at that time... sad, because I always liked the guy, but yeah, there it is...

 

[RTB1]

He represents some really good value at his ADP and in dynasty I have been able to grab him as a RB4 for peanuts.

He is their best back on the roster and last season helped one of my squads to a championship. Yes Maroney helped. I don't think savey owners are looking for him to give big numbers....but to get 10-12 points from a guy you plug in as RB3 is quite important over the course of a season. Maroney was able to put up many productive weeks last season and he was by all intensive purposes a forgotten man in the fantasty world.

I love this. Two in one paragraph.

 

[Phlash]

He represents some really good value at his ADP and in dynasty I have been able to grab him as a RB4 for peanuts.

He is their best back on the roster and last season helped one of my squads to a championship. Yes Maroney helped. I don't think savey owners are looking for him to give big numbers....but to get 10-12 points from a guy you plug in as RB3 is quite important over the course of a season. Maroney was able to put up many productive weeks last season and he was by all intensive purposes a forgotten man in the fantasty world.

I love this. Two in one paragraph.

When I read that post I had to inform people of how annoying it is when people write "intensive purposes".

 

[Todem]

He represents some really good value at his ADP and in dynasty I have been able to grab him as a RB4 for peanuts.He is their best back on the roster and last season helped one of my squads to a championship. Yes Maroney helped. I don't think savey owners are looking for him to give big numbers....but to get 10-12 points from a guy you plug in as RB3 is quite important over the course of a season. Maroney was able to put up many productive weeks last season and he was by all intensive purposes a forgotten man in the fantasty world.

The problem with Maroney is that he's been the best, most skilled RB on the Patriots since the day he showed up. Yet he still has not earned the starting job and for all intents and purpose is in a true RBBC. As outlined earlier, Maroney COULD do well at times in NE if everyone else is hurt AND Maroney is healthy. But in 64 games that the Pats have played since Maroney was drafted, he's put up 10 fantasy points in a game 20 times. Admittedly, he was banged up himself a number of times, but the fact of the matter is that you can't rely on him consistently as a fantasy RB3. Last year was his best fantasy season, as he scored 10 fantasy points in a game 8 times. Which of course means he didn't score 10 points in a game 8 times. But on closer analysis, he was able to accomplish that by scoring a bunch of TD, and he's really not the Pats goal line back. If someone else gets the TDs (and they likely could) and someone else gets the receptions (which usually is the case), Maroney doesn't have a lot of fantasy value. He's a decent fantasy option when he's the only back that can go for New England, but when everyone else is active and playing he's not all that great. That could all change if he switched teams and his new franchise wanted him to be a bell cow, but we can debate that if and when that happens.

I don't disagree with that. But I also think it has gotten to the point in New England where Morris and Taylor are very likley to break down early. Taylor is truly old now and Morris has shown a propensity to be hurt just about every season. Maroney has value for the second half of the season again in this scenario. I don't like to predict injuries and such but they have a grey beard stable of backs.Also if Maroney does manage to break away from the Pat's after this season, he may get that bell cow opportunity somewhere else. I don't think he is a special player by any means. He does however have decent skills and I think if he was given the ball 275 plus times could make some noise.