James Develin Injury: Updates on Patriots FB's Leg and Return

The New England Patriots are in the market for a new fullback after James Develin suffered a broken leg Friday night against the Carolina Panthers, according to Jim McBride of the Boston Globe.

Continue for updates.

---

Develin to Undergo Surgery 

Saturday, Aug. 29

ESPN.com Mike Reiss reported the hope for recovery time after surgery will be six-to-eight weeks.

According to CSNNE.com's Michael Giardi on Aug. 28, doctors placed Develin's right leg in an air cast shortly after his exit.

Develin started each game for New England the past two years. Although he has recorded only seven carries and 10 receptions during that stretch, his blocking helped to open up holes for the likes of Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen, Jonas Gray and LeGarrette Blount.

The 27-year-old is the only fullback listed on the Patriots' roster, meaning the team has no direct replacement for him in the squad.

No matter whom New England tabs to fill the role, it will be difficult to replicate the consistency Develin displayed last year.