Patriots Release RB Trey Williams from their Practice Squad

As of today, the New England Patriots have only two healthy running backs on their 53-man roster. Another one, LeGarrette Blount, is expected to see his season end on injured reserve soon. Naturally, this creates a need for runners on the team.

However, the Patriots have just cut ties with one of their running backs, according to Doug Kyed:

The Patriots released rookie RB Trey Williams from the practice squad this morning, according to a source.

Williams, who was originally signed as an undrafted rookie by the Washington Redskins this year, was claimed off waivers by New England on December 1, but was cut and signed to the practice squad a days weeks later. Now, he is out of a job again; falling victim to the team signing linebacker Kevin Snyder to the 10-man practice squad.

Given Blount's injury situation, the move comes as a minor surprise. While the 23-year old was not expected to be the player to replace the veteran's production, it would not have been surprising to see Williams promoted to the 53-man roster to be a part of the post-Blount running back rotation.

Without the former Texas A&M Aggie in the fold and with Blount headed to injured reserve, the Patriots currently have only three pure running backs under contract: Brandon Bolden and James White on the active roster, and recently signed Montee Ball on the practice squad. Furthermore, the team has had a visit with free agent Steven Jackson today.