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Patriots free agency: 6 things we hope happen

By Connor Fulton

Aug 24, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Mohamed Sanu (12) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 24, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Mohamed Sanu (12) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Patriots free agency Chris Ivory
Dec 13, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Fill power back role

In 2016 free agency, the Patriots must decide the future of a position they experienced decreasing success at over the course of the 2015 season: power back. Whether that means re-signing LeGarrette Blount or finding another option in the open market, the Patriots must provide a punch behind lightning-quick backfield fixtures Dion Lewis and James White.

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The case for Blount is simple: he runs in a straight line, always gains an extra half-yard or more when being tackled and is familiar with the Patriots’ offensive system.

The case for a new signing is enticing because the Patriots barely ever make a splashy free agent running back signing. If the Patriots do look elsewhere, they should consider high-end options such as Chris Ivory and Alfred Morris, or they could get guys like Stevan Ridley and Bryce Brown at a discount.

Or, the Patriots may go with an aging star like Matt Forte or Arian Foster. The main takeaway here is that the Patriots can’t lose Blount and not sign a notable free agent running back.

Next: 3. Add linebacker depth

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