New England Patriots: Contract situation for Sony Michel is not concerning
By Nick Ziegler
The New England Patriots and running back Sony Michel have yet to agree on his rookie contract. Recently Michel discussed the contract situation.
As we get closer to July, the New England Patriots only have one rookie that they have yet to sign. After just recently agreeing to terms with Isaiah Wynn, the Patriots now just need to get a deal done with Sony Michel.
Michel was somewhat of a surprise pick by the Patriots at 31st overall, but he could be a great weapon in the backfield for the Patriots. Since the Patriots let Dion Lewis walk as a free agent this offseason, there are a lot of carries that are up for grabs.
While they did bring back Rex Burkhead this offseason, Michel figures to be the most likely candidate to fill in Lewis’ role as the primary ball carrier. At Georgia, Michel had a very impressive career alongside Nick Chubb. Coming from a team in college that used a duo in the backfield, Michel should be comfortable with the rotation that the Patriots will be using.
Recently, Michel talked about his contract situation. Here’s what he said to Stephen Hewitt of the Boston Herald.
"“I’m sure it’s going to get taken care of, but that’s other people that’s taking care of that,” Michel said. “My focus is just to make sure I’m in the best shape possible that I can be to get ready for camp.”"
One of the reasons for the hold up was likely due to the Seattle Seahawks and Rashaad Penny taking a while to get a contract done. Most teams like to see what type of guarantees and structures, and the Patriots could have been waiting for that.
Next: 53-man roster projection
With Wynn signing recently, the Patriots should be fully focused on getting a deal done with Michel next. Despite not signing his rookie deal yet, it is good that Michel doesn’t appear to be worried about the contract situation. Occasionally these contract situations can get ugly, but that doesn’t appear to be the case for Michel and the Patriots. In all likelihood, a deal will be done rather soon.