FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Three days after releasing running back Tyler Gaffney, the New England Patriots re-signed him on Thursday.
It is unclear what led to the change of heart, but Gaffney -- who was claimed by the team in 2014 but has spent the last two regular seasons on injured reserve -- is back to compete for a roster spot at a position where the Patriots would like to add a draft pick as well.
Gaffney's unique situation, and the financial risk the Patriots took in claiming him, was detailed Monday.
The Patriots have top backs Dion Lewis and LeGarrette Blount reurning in 2016, along with James White, Brandon Bolden, Donald Brown, Joey Iosefa and Gaffney at running back.
Meanwhile, linebacker Eric Martin was officially waived. He appeared in three regular-season games last season as a special-teamer.
