Patriots' Dion Lewis: Return to practice on tap

Lewis (knee) is expected to return to practice this week, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.

Analysis:

Lewis currently resides on the Patriots' reserve/PUP list, and once he finally does take the practice field, the team will have 21 days to add him to their active roster. Upon returning, the 26-year-old could serve as a change of pace from the bruising LeGarrette Blount, but he will also have pass-catching back James White to contend with for snaps. White has been a more-than-adequate replacement for Lewis in 2016, collecting 27 receptions for 244 yards and three scores. The pending return of Lewis could set up a three-headed monster in the New England backfield that will give fantasy owners fits, as coach Bill Belichick notoriously likes to vary his carry distribution on a game-by-game basis.