The Indianapolis Colts lost running back Ahmad Bradshaw for the season after he suffered a broken fibula in Sunday night's game against the New England Patriots.

Bradshaw had been a much-needed spark in the backfield after finally getting healthy this off-season. The eight-year veteran had carried the ball 90 times for 425 yards (4.7 yards per rush) and two touchdowns, while also adding 38 receptions for 300 yards and six touchdowns for the AFC South leading Colts.

With disappointing former third overall pick Trent Richardson - 3.4 yards per carry this season - left as the only viable running back option in Indianapolis, the team had been linked to Ray Rice, following a possible reinstatement. Colts coach Chuck Pagano was the defensive coordinator in Baltimore during Rice's early career. However, a reunion does not appear likely.

ESPN's Ed Werder reported that the Colts "would have no interest in signing Ray Rice as a potential replacement once the player is reinstated to the NFL, a team source said."

Third-year rusher Daniel Herron will likely take snaps as the No. 2 running back behind Richardson now. Herron has carried the ball just 22 times this season for 74 yards (3.4 yards per rush).