New England Patriots: 53-man roster projection after two preseason games

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FOXBOROUGH, MA – AUGUST 16: James White #28 of the New England Patriots celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles during the preseason game at Gillette Stadium on August 16, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Tim Bradbury/Getty Images) /

Running Back (5): Brandon Bolden, Rex Burkhead, Jeremy Hill, Sony Michel, James White

The Ralph Webb hype was real following the first preseason game, but the Patriots’ running back group is extremely deep and talented. Receiving back James White, special team ace Brandon Bolden and utility knife Rex Burkhead are locks to make the 53-man roster.

New England used one of their two first round picks on rookie running back Sony Michel. Michel was one of the most dynamic runners in college last season, but fell in the draft due to knee issues. During camp, Michel has already had his knee drained due to a problem with his meniscus. The injury isn’t supposed to keep him out of the regular season, but the rookie’s absence from Monday’s practice ups the total to 10 straight days without practicing.

The last battle appears to be Mike Gillislee versus Jeremy Hill as the teams “power-back”. Hill has out-gained Gillislee 82 to 65 this preseason even though he’s received six less carries. Hill appears slimmer and quicker than last season which shows when he’s running. Hill has a history of not being able to hang onto the ball, but currently appears to be the favorite to land the “power-back” job over Gillislee.

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