Blount won’t count against the initial 53-man roster limit because of the suspension, which gives a Patriots player who otherwise would have been cut a chance to stick for at least one more week and perhaps longer (depending on injuries). So in a sense, it’s almost as if the team benefits.
Quick-hit thoughts around New England Patriots and the NFL – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN
It was the same way last year with Brandon Browner, essentially giving the Pats an extra roster spot to work with at the time of year when they most need it. If the NFL really wanted to punish everyone, there would be no exemption.