The Patriots have released running back Tyler Gaffney, according to Doug Kyed of NESN.com (on Twitter). This could be a sign of good things to come for New England as Gaffney’s release is likely paving the way for a Dion Lewis return. 
Gaffney, 25, was a sixth-round pick in the 2014 draft, but various injuries have held him back over the last few years. The Patriots claimed Gaffney off waivers from the Panthers during his rookie season, and stashed him on injured reserve in each of the next two years. After being waived with an injury settlement in September, Gaffney signed on with New England’s practice squad in mid-October. Although he was bumped to the 53-man roster recently, he still hasn’t seen the NFL field.
Gaffney was expected to serve as a depth option behind LeGarrette Blount, James White, Brandon Bolden, and D.J. Foster. Now, he’s out of the picture altogether as Lewis gears up for his highly-anticipated return. Given his injury history, it seems likely that New England could sneak him through waivers and stash him on the practice squad again.