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New England Patriots Should Avoid Jamaal Charles in Free Agency

By Nick Ziegler

Oct 16, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the second quarter at Oakland Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the second quarter at Oakland Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Running back Jamaal Charles was recently released by the Kansas City Chiefs. Should the New England Patriots consider him in free agency?

After winning Super Bowl LI, the New England Patriots have a busy offseason ahead of them. With a lot of key free agents, the Patriots might be a different looking team next season.

On offense, one of their key free agents is running back LeGarrette Blount. In a contract year, Blount had one of the best of his career. As the lead runner in a rejuvenated Patriots’ running attack, Blount set the single-season record for rushing touchdowns in a season with 18.

Even though Blount ran for over 1,000 yards, he is 30-years-old, and also only averaged 3.9 yards per carry. As a free agent, Blount might decide to try and make some money in free agency, and the Patriots might be unwilling to pay market value to keep him.

If Blount indeed does leave New England, there are a few high-profile running backs that they could target. One of which being Jamaal Charles.

Charles was recently let go by the Kansas City Chiefs, and he quickly became one of the most high-profile free agents available. In nine seasons, Charles has totaled 7,260 rushing yards, 43 rushing touchdowns, and impressive 5.5 yards per carry average.

In addition to his success on the ground, Charles also can be an impact player in the passing game. Also, Charles has totaled 285 receptions, 2,457 receiving yards, and 20 receiving touchdowns.

Charles’ versatility on offense is something that many teams would like. However, he has only played in eight games in the last two seasons. These injuries are why the Chiefs released him, and also why teams must be cautious when signing him.

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For the Patriots, the recent injuries to Charles should be a red flag. Even though Charles has the ability to be an impact player, it would be hard to trust him to stay healthy in 2017 and beyond. With running backs James White and Dion Lewis still under contract, the Patriots would be better suited to land a running back that is better running between the tackles.

Even though he has had a great career, Charles should be a player that the Patriots avoid in free agency.

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