Patriots Notes: Vereen Back at Practice, Evans Retires, OL Mike Berry Re-Signed

A few Patriots notes to pass along this Wednesday afternoon:

Shane Vereen Returns to the Practice Field.  The Patriots received a boost at the running back position Wednesday, as rookie 2nd round running back Shane Vereen took the field for the first time since suffering an injury the first week of practice.  Vereen had looked solid before going down, and it will be intriguing to see where he fits in with the current group of Patriots running backs, including fellow rookie runner Stevan Ridley, who leagues the league in rushing yards through two weeks of the preseason.  Vereen looks like he could suit up for the Detroit game on Saturday, and figures to get extensive playing time in the team's preseason finale next week.

Former Pats Fullback Heath Evans Retires. According to his own twitter feed, former Patriots running back Heath Evans is retiring from professional football to pursue a career with NFL Network.  Earlier in the offseason, Evans had hinted that he would be open to a return with the Patriots, but ultimately decided to move in an entirely different direction with his career.  Evans played for the Patriots from 2005-2008.  He saw time at halfback, fullback, special teams, and was a leader for the team both on and off the field.

OL Mike Berry Re-Signed.  The Patriots have announced that rookie free agent offensive lineman Mike Berry has been re-signed by the team.  Berry was originally signed on July 27th, before being released on August 3rd.  The 6'3", 316 lbs guard lineman all 14 games at right guard for Auburn's National Championship team in 2010.