The New England Patriots, on Tuesday traded their 4th year running back Laurence Maroney to the Denver Broncos. New England will also send next years 6th round pick to the Broncos, in exchange for a 4th rounder in 2011.

Laurence Maroney who had appeared to lose his starting job with the Patriots, behind Fred Taylor and Sammy Morris, will get a new opportunity in Denver.

Maroney was the Patriots first-round pick in 2006, but never lived up to his expectations for a team that has consistently been in the playofs. Denver hopes that the running back can flourish on a team known for producing multiple 1000 yard rushers over the years. Maroney still is only 25 years old, even though this is his 4th season in the league.

It is unknown exactly how Maroney will fit into the mix in the Broncos backfield, which already has 2nd year player Knowshon Moreno, and veteran Correll Buckhalter.