FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots put running back Laurence Maroney on injured reserve with a shoulder injury today, ending his season.

The team also activated offensive lineman Stephen Neal from the physically unable to perform list before Monday night's game against the Denver Broncos and signed cornerback Mike Richardson from the practice squad. To make room, the Patriots released offensive lineman Dan Connolly.

The loss of Maroney dealt another blow to an offense playing without reigning NFL MVP Tom Brady, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in the opener. The Patriots entered Monday's game at 3-2 without their star quarterback.

Maroney was a first-round draft pick out of Minnesota in 2006, who led the Patriots with 835 yards rushing last season but has struggled this season. He played in three games and totaled 93 yards on 28 rushes. He was sidelined against Miami and San Diego, both losses.

In his first pro season, Maroney finished second on the team to Corey Dillon with 745 yards rushing.