New England Patriots: 10 X-Factors In 2015
5. Jonas Gray (Running Back)
Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports
Jonas Gray is still yet to be found since disappearing after a monster performance against the Colts last season in which he amassed 201 yards and 4 touchdowns on the ground. It looked like Gray was primed to grab the starting job-he even made it on the cover of Sports Illustrated-but he ended up in Bill’s doghouse after being late to practice. His combination of size and speed makes him the clear number two back behind LeGarrette Blount.
If New England is going to employ more of a ground and pound style into their offense this season, Blount and Gray have to the two-headed monster leading the charge. Gray’s no nonsense approach to running the ball will lead him back to the short-lived success he had last season, only for much longer. With Blount suspended for week 1 against Pittsburgh, Gray has a chance to reemerge as a game changing back for the Patriots.
Next: Jimmy Garoppolo