New England Patriots: Lack of playing time is tough for Dion Lewis

In the first three games of the season for the New England Patriots, it has become clear that running back Dion Lewis is a bit of an afterthought in the offense.

Coming into the 2017 season, the New England Patriots knew that they would have a nice stable of running backs.

In the offseason, the Patriots decided to let LeGarrette Blount go despite him setting the single-season franchise record for rushing touchdowns. While Blount’s 18 rushing touchdowns certainly helped New England, he didn’t average four yards per carry last season, and that is simply not going to cut it in the offseason.

During the playoffs, it was James White who stepped up for New England. White had one of the best Super Bowl performances of all-time and easily could have been the MVP of that game. With White clearly in the picture for this season, the Patriots then went out and added Mike Gillislee and Rex Burkhead.

Gillislee was the natural fit to replace Blount, as he is a power back that has more speed than Blount. The Burkhead addition gave the Patriots a swiss army knife in the backfield that can run, catch, and play special teams.

During training camp and the preseason, it appeared like Dion Lewis might be on the roster bubble with all of the talent that the Patriots had at running back. However, he ended up making the team but has yet to find his role in the offense. As a pretty talented player, Lewis said that it is tough for him right now.

"“It’s tough,” Lewis told Mike Giardi of CSNNE.com, “but I just come every day, and try to work hard like I always do. My time will come. I know what kind of player I am. My teammates know what type of player I am. I’ll get my chance and show people what I can do, but I don’t really have no control over that.”"

Injuries have certainly played a part in slowing down Lewis’ career so far. However, he is healthy now and hungry for the opportunity. Since the Patriots do have a surplus at running back right now, Lewis could be dealt before the NFL trade deadline.

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The Patriots like to have as much depth as they can, and with Burkhead already out, Lewis is the third-string running back. While he might not like his role, he has to be prepared for potential playing time when it surfaces.