When the Patriots released running back Joseph Addai with a failed physical designation, it implies an injury or pre-existing condition or a simple lack of fitness.
Or maybe, Addai just didn’t want to push through the conditioning test the Patriots require.
Mary Paoletti of CSNNE.com reported that Addai was “struggling” during the test and “simply quit.”
He was then released, leaving the Patriots with little experience on the depth chart at running back, where third-year back Danny Woodhead is the senior member of the group, playing behind 2011 draft picks Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen, with undrafted rookie Brandon Bolden in reserve.
When Bill Belichick was asked about Addai Thursday, he responded simply: “It didn’t work out.”
It’s worth wondering at this point if Addai will get another chance. The 29-year-old was once dynamic, but has played just 20 games the last two seasons because of injuries. Having the reputation of someone who can’t finish isn’t going to help him get another job either.