Patriots Rumors: James White Signs Three-Year Extension

Recent Patriots rumors are that they have signed running back James White to a three-year extension, according to Adam Schefter.

There have been plenty New England Patriots rumors this offseason, and the latest is that James White has signed a three-year extension.

Before White capped off the biggest comeback in Super Bowl history, he rushed for just 166 yards on 39 carries. No one can blame him for his numbers being that down, though.

He was the team’s third running back behind one of the league’s leading rushers in LeGarrette Blount and Dion Lewis. Blount rushed for 1,161 yards and a league-best 18 touchdowns. Lewis scored three touchdowns in the Patriots divisional playoff win over the Houston Texans. That was an NFL playoff record.

White made a name for himself on the world’s biggest stage. He caught a Super Bowl record 14 catches for 110 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for two touchdowns, including the game-winner in overtime.

The Patriots drafted White in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Super Bowl LI was the second White won with New England.

Since the team’s fifth title in 17 years, Blount has become a free agent and it’s still unsure whether he will return or not. New England has also signed several running backs including former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rex Burkhead. Recently, they have also made an offer sheet former Buffalo Bills running back Mike Gillisee.

The Patriots are the favorite to repeat as Super Bowl champions in 2017-18. They were the last team to repeat as champions back in 2004 and 2005.

Next: Patriots 7-Round Mock Draft

According to the strength of schedule based on 2016 records, the Patriots have the easiest schedule of the 2017 season. New England will likely be opening against the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday night football to start the season. For White, he will be playing with a bit more job security after signing the extension.