LeGarrette Blount will return to the New England Patriots after being released by the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this week, the team announced on Thursday.

Blount, who played 16 games for the Patriots during the 2013 NFL season, reportedly signed a two-year deal with the Patriots. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but ESPN reported that the running back signed for the veteran's minimum salary.

Blount join the Patriots running back group that also features Jonas Gray, Brandon Bolden, Shane Vereen and James White.

Gray recently had an impressive performance for the Patriots, rushing 201 yards in their 42-20 win over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. When asked if he is threatened by the Blount's return, Gray said that he was not surprised with the move, and expressed support to coach Bill Belichick's plan.

"I wasn't necessarily surprised," Gray told Boston Globe, referring to Blount's signing. "In this business, not a whole lot surprises me, especially given where I've come from. I just prepare the same way. It doesn't really matter who we sign or who we bring here. I believe in Bill and whatever he's doing. I just go with whatever the game plan is."

Blount, who rushed 266 yards with two touchdowns with the Steelers last season, practiced for the first time on Thursday, and Gray said that the veteran made an "instant connection" with his teammates.

"The guys here have nothing but good things to say about him," Gray said. "I'm excited, man. I think it's going to be something good for us. For a team, what we want to do long-term, when these cold-weather games start coming up, I think it's going to help."

According to ESPN, the move is also some sort of preparation for the team's future as sources indicated that Vereen and Bolden will consider leaving the Patriots via free agency after the season. Running back Steven Ridley's future is also uncertain after sustaining a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee.

For the latest sports news, follow Latin Post Sports on Twitter.

FOR MORE NFL NEWS, TRADE AND FREE AGENCY UPDATES, CLICK ON THIS LINK TO VISIT LATIN POST.COM'S SPORTS PAGE.

Related