Patriots add Fiammetta, release fullback Polite

BY SEAN DONOVAN

More change has come to the Patriots' backfield.

New England signed Tony Fiammetta and released Lousaka Polite on Monday, according to the Associated Press.

Fiammetta joins Spencer Larsen as new additions to the Patriots' fullback corps. Like Larsen, Fiammetta has been known as primarily a lead blocker in his career with the Panthers and Cowboys, having carried the ball only 11 times for 26 yards in three seasons.

Polite was known as a short yardage specialist during his time with the Dolphins but was picked up by New England as a free agent after Miami cut him prior to the 2011 regular season. He was on the field for just 24 offensive snaps last season.

In a league where having no true fullbacks on the roster is not uncommon, the Patriots currently have three. Eric Kettani rounds out the trio, but he has missed the past couple seasons while serving in the U.S. Navy. Tight end Aaron Hernandez has also been known to make an appearance in the backfield, having an amazing 11.5 yard average on eight career carries.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis, the Patriots' starting tailback in 2011, will not be back after signing a three-year deal with the Bengals. Second-year back Stevan Ridley figures to take on a larger role in the offense.

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