The Facts:
Fumbles plagued Ridley even when the ball was dry. A steady rain presents another challenge to the RB. It wasn't a problem for him Thursday. The Patriots continued their organized team activities on a soggy day and Ridley gripped the ball as if his job depended on it. It might if he keeps fumbling. "I told one of the young guys today, that's the quickest way to get off the field," Ridley said. "You can ask me first."
Reported by the Associated Press
Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
As AP sports writer Howard Ulman notes, Ridley speaks from experience. He lost fumbles in three consecutive games last season. After the third, in the first quarter against the Denver Broncos on Nov. 24, he was benched for the rest of New England's 34-31 comeback win in overtime. He lost a total of four fumbles last season leading to three touchdowns and a field goal. So he's been focusing on avoiding a repeat this year. The third-round pick from LSU fumbled just once as a rookie in 2011, but the Patriots recovered it. He lost two of his four fumbles in 2012 before the problem escalated last year. And his rushing production dropped -- from 1,263 yards and 12 touchdowns on 290 carries in 2012 to 773 yards and seven touchdowns on 178 attempts. So he's concentrating on improving his overall focus on every play. The issue will diminish Ridley's draft-day price tag so there's value to be had. But it doesn't come without considerable risk.
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