New England Patriots: 5 Trade destinations for Dion Lewis or James White

The New England Patriots have a surplus at running back. Could this result in one of them being traded?

Patriots fans have been talking about the depth at the running back position all offseason and have witnessed it now in preseason games. With so much value in the backfield, it’s going to be hard to get the rock in so many hands.

This is a good problem to have. Now there are media pundits talking about a “trade”. I targeted Dion Lewis as the running back on the outside looking in for a roster spot in early August. If the Patriots decide to keep Dion for his kick return abilities, then I would think the Super Bowl hero, James White, would be the next back with the most value and the one who’s skills most closely resemble Lewis.

The Patriots should be on the look out for a linebacker or defensive end – the two positions they could use some depth. With that in mind, let’s examine some possible trade candidates.

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens depth at the RB position is thin at best, headlined by the meniscus surgery Kenneth Dixon had in late June. Former Patriot, Danny Woodhead was acquired this season in free agency. He comes from San Diego where his career was slowed by significant leg injuries. While the Ravens may not be interested in Lewis due to his own injury history, James White could be an enticing bargaining chip.

In return, the Patriots are thin at the linebacking position. This appears to be a position of strength in Baltimore. I have my eye on Za’Darius Smith. He’s looked good this preseason and it would appear is a guy further down the depth chart. Player for player trades rarely happen in the NFL but this is one that I could see benefiting both teams.