New England Patriots: Top Four Positional Battles To Watch

Aug 15, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots running back James White (28) runs the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles in the second quarter during the preseason game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

4. Running Back

Bill Belichick has a system when it comes to paying running backs, and it has worked for 13 years. Belichick will never, EVER overpay for a back, because he knows that they are probably the most expendable players in the NFL, particularly in his offensive system. If someone wants too much money, he will gladly let them walk, and find someone else than can come in and produce for far less money.

When Kevin Faulk left, everybody was freaking out about what the Patriots would do for a change-of-pace back. Then Danny Woodhead came in, and helped lead New England’s offense. When Woodhead left, everybody started freaking out all over again, until Shane Vereen came in and replaced Woodhead perfectly.

Who will it be now? Will it be James White, or Travaris Cadet? LeGarrette Blount and Jonas Gray are firmly entrenched as the top two power backs, but the real battle will be between White and Cadet for that third down role. Cadet is more proven than White, so he will probably get more snaps to start off, but I could see White slowly taking over that role, given enough time.

We also can’t forget about Tyler Gaffney, who may end up being the best back of them all. He was stashed on IR last year, so everybody forgot about him, but he definitely has enough talent to make some noise.