Patriots sign Steven Jackson: 5 Ripple effects
Patriots sign Steven Jackson: 5 Ripple effects
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The New England Patriots acted upon last week’s meeting with veteran running back Steven Jackson, signing him to a one-year deal on Monday. Here are some ripple effects from that news:
Ripple Effect #5 – Brandon Bolden will go back to special teams
Earlier in the day, ESPN Boston’s Mike Reiss tweeted this out:
New England bulking up. https://t.co/pYJHNEYyZE
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 21, 2015
Not long after, Jackson was signed.
Steven Jackson signing: Patriots didn't have RB Brandon Bolden on any special teams units Sunday. Adding Jackson gets Bolden back on teams.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) December 21, 2015
Look, Bolden is arguably one of the most prototypical Bill Belichick players on this roster. He is a valuable special teamer and capable of his job description as a running back as well. Bolden will still get carries, but he will be able to service the Patriots where they need his skill set the most, at special teams.
Takeaways from win over Titans
And it’s not like the Patriots special teams has been the best unit in the league. To focus on just one area, the punt coverage team ranks a lousy 24th with a net of 40.0; the reintroduction of Bolden into that scenario should be a boost there.
Next: 4. Iosefa will have to fight for carries