The Patriots used a third-round choice on running back Damien Harris in 2019. He saw action in two games, playing five offensive snaps and five on special teams and getting four touches for 12 yards.
He will begin this season on injured reserve with a hand injury.
Harris can return after missing the first three games.
Defensive tackle Beau Allen, a free agent signing from the Buccaneers, also will begin the year on IR, the team announced. Allen was projected as a starter but was absent since near the start of training camp with an undisclosed injury.