New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount sprained his MCL in his right knee, according to Shalise Manza Young of The Boston Globe.

Blount is expected to be back in time for the regular season. It should be noted that he's suspended for the season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to a violation of the league's substance abuse policy.

In the event Blount isn't healthy in time, expect Jonas Gray, Brandon Bolden, Travaris Cadet, and James Develin to fight for touches.

Blount was an integral part of the Patriots' championship run last season, rushing for 148 yards and three touchdowns against the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship Game. Although the Patriots are notoriously secretive about their plans in the running game, Blount was slated to become the feature back.