Quick end for Pats, Maroney

The Laurence Maroney era in Foxborough ended with a whimper yesterday.

The Patriots traded the running back — who cost them a first-round selection in 2006 — to Denver. New England, which also sent a 2011 sixth-round pick west, will receive a 2011 fourth-round pick.

Maroney, a Minnesota product, never delivered on his immense potential, rushing for a total of 2,430 yards and 21 touchdowns with New England.?He was inactive for Week 1.