Patriots: Forecasting D.J. Foster in 2016

This is the tenth installment in a 17-part series in which we are forecasting what 2016 holds in store for each member of the New England Patriots’ rookie class. Today, we’re forecasting former Arizona State running back D.J. Foster in 2016. Recently, we forecasted the other Arizona State alum the Patriots signed this month, Devin Lucien, so be sure to check that out).

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The skinny: Foster heads the Patriots’ 2016 undrafted free agent class. He is a promising looking player having flashed promise as a pass catching weapon out of the backfield during college. As noted by Mike Reiss, Foster received a nice paycheck for an undrafted signing this month:

Here’s what my co-editor, Cyrus Geller, had to say about Foster when the Patriots signed him earlier this month along with seven other prospects:

"My personal favorite out of this group is DJ Foster out of Arizona State. The Pats could use more depth at the running back position, and Foster flashed talent at ASU. We’ll see what happens over the course of training camp this summer."

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Pessimistic forecast: Working against Dion Lewis and James White, two running backs with near-identical skill sets as Foster, the rookie struggles early and often in training camp and fails to survive the first wave of cuts.

Pessimistic stats projection: Cut in training camp, so no 2016 stats for Foster with the Pats.

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Optimistic forecast: Foster displays so much potential as aerial attack gadgetry for Josh McDaniels that the Patriots simply can’t cut him. Foster forces himself onto the 53-man roster and is the story of training camp. He even lines up at wide receiver at points during the season.

Optimistic stats projection: 202 rushing yards, 4.4 yards per carry, three touchdowns; 22 receptions, 255 yards, two touchdowns

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Realistic forecast: Due to the presence of roster locks LeGarrette Blount, Dion Lewis and Brandon Bolden, Foster’s best chance to make the roster involves taking White head-on during training camp competitions and crucial roster decisions. The undrafted rookie doesn’t succeed in this tall order, but he lands on his feet by signing to the practice squad. When injuries hit Lewis and/or White, Foster gets activated and makes the most of the opportunity.

Realistic stats projection: 88 rushing yards, 4.0 yards per carry, touchdown; nine receptions, 104 yards, touchdown

Be sure to stop by Musket Fire tomorrow morning as we forecast undrafted cornerback Jonathan Jones.

Next: AFC Power Rankings: Pats top post-draft edition

What do you think 2016 has in store for Foster? Comment below.