Stevan Ridley, Mark Barron

New England Patriots running back Stevan Ridley (22) runs against Tampa Bay Buccaneers strong safety Mark Barron (23) in the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

While it's not known what kind of role he will be given, barring an overnight change, it is expected that Stevan Ridley will be active for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns, according to a source.

The New England Patriots running back has been shrouded in uncertainty since fumbling during a Week 11 win over the Denver Broncos, his fourth fumble of the year and third in three games. Ridley was benched for the remainder of the contest and made inactive for last week's win over the Houston Texans.

Ridley declined to speak to reporters throughout the week when approached in the locker room, stating simply that, "I don't have anything to say." Previously, he said that he was "sickened" by his inability to hold onto the ball.

Ridley has carried 135 times for 576 yards with seven touchdowns this season. He rushed for 1,263 yards on 290 carries with 12 touchdowns in 2012.

While he was out, LeGarrette Blount picked up the slack against the Texans, running 12 times for 44 yards. Shane Vereen had 10 carries for 38 yards.

It remains to be seen if Ridley will be eased back into action or immediately thrown back into the fire.