New England Patriots: Looking At Running Back Depth Chart
By Cyrus Geller
Going into the this year’s NFL Draft, a lot of people thought running back was the top need for the Patriots. However I think that was an overblown storyline, and by and large the Pats should be fine this year at running back.
Here are the backs New England currently has on the roster:
D.J. Foster
With this group, I envision the Patriots keeping five, possibly six (although that is not very likely) running backs on the opening roster. That is how they usually do it, and I expect the same this year.
To me, Blount, Bolden, Lewis, White and Develin are all virtual locks to make the roster. Barring any big injuries this summer, I don’t think Brown, Foster or Gaffney will be able to leap over any of those five guys to make the cut. That’s not necessarily a knock on Brown, Foster of Gaffney, but the top guys have more experience and talent that Bill Belichick will like.
As for how the five that make the roster will stack up, I think it will go like this: Lewis, Blount, White and Bolden. Develin is a pure fullback, and having him back will actually be huge for New England’s run game. He was sorely missed last year after he went down in the preseason with a season ending injury.
Dion Lewis is clearly the best back the Pats have, as he is electric in the passing game, and so quick and elusive that he can turn nothing into 15 yard gains in the run game. The only question is if he can stay healthy for an entire year. If he can do that, this offense is going to be unstoppable.
Blount will be the top first and second down back, and White will be the third guy if Lewis or Blount goes down with an injury. Bolden is a capable back as well, but he is much better served on special teams.