Veteran running back Shane Vereen has agreed to join the New Orleans Saints in a move that could help the club cope to Mark Ingram's early-season suspension.
The 29-year-old Vereen has served as a runner and receiver with New England and the New York Giants during his seven NFL seasons.
He gained 838 yards from scrimmage and scored five touchdowns for the Patriots' 2014 squad that won the Super Bowl.
Last season with the Giants, he rushed for 164 yards and caught 44 passes for 253 yards.
Ingram, who was New Orleans' leading rusher last season, has been suspended four games for use of a banned substance.
The Saints also signed veteran running back Terrance West this summer.