New England Patriots: A.J. Green has high expectations for Sony Michel
Former Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver A.J. Green has high expectations for New England Patriots first-round pick, Sony Michel.
The New England Patriots added some talent to their backfield in the 2018 NFL Draft. With the No. 31 overall pick in the draft, the Patriots selected Georgia running back, Sony Michel.
Michel will help replace Dion Lewis, who signed with the Tennessee Titans in free agency. Lewis was a versatile back, taking over early down work for New England last season but was a capable receiver as well. Michel brings a lot of the same qualities.
In his four years at Georgia, Michel ran for 3,613 yards on 590 carries, adding 64 receptions for 621 yards. He totaled 39 touchdowns in his career. The biggest difference between Michel and Lewis is their size. Michel stands 5’11” and weighs 215 pounds. Lewis comes in at 5’8″ and 195 pounds.
At Georgia, Michel was never a featured back, always playing in a committee. That is the same way that New England conducts business in their backfield, so it will be something he is used to doing.
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Michel is joining a pretty crowded backfield. Jeremy Hill was signed in free agency away from the Cincinnati Bengals. Rex Burkhead was re-signed after Lewis left. Mike Gillislee is still on the roster along with passing down specialist James White.
It will be difficult to carve out a role in the Patriots backfield. You have to earn your playing time, as nothing will be handed out by Bill Belichick.
It is clear that the Patriots are confident in Michel to produce, as they used a first-round pick on him. A former Bulldog is also expecting big things from Michel.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver, and Georgia alum, A.J. Green, has high expectations for Michel. During an interview with Adam Schefter of ESPN, Green was asked which pick he liked the most. He gave an expected answer, as he liked them all, but also said that he is picking Michel to take home the Offensive Rookie of the Year Award.
"“I like all of them, but I love Sony,” Green said. “You know his versatility. And him going to New England – that’s my pick for Rookie of the Year this year.”"
Green cited the Patriots and their game plans as a big reason he expects Michel to find success. Given his versatility, you can be sure that offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels will be moving him around the field.
"“I’ve seen him play. I know how versatile he is,” Green said. “You put him in a system like New England’s where he can be out there running routes and in the backfield and all the other stuff going on against linebackers.”"
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New England is certainly hoping that Michel produces as much as Green believes that he is capable of doing. While the selection surprised some people, the Patriots are getting quite the player to elevate an already dangerous offense led by Tom Brady.