New England Patriots: 53-man roster cut down analysis

By Hal Bent | Sep 4, 2018

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - AUGUST 30: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots stands on the sidelines against the New York Giants during a pre-season NFL game against at MetLife Stadium on August 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images) /

2 of 8

Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images /

RUNNING BACKS (5)

Rex Burkhead, Jeremy Hill, Sony Michel, James White, (FB) James Develin

Mike Gillislee didn’t make the cut but did not stay out of work long as he has already landed in New Orleans. The Patriots cut Brandon Bolden just as they did last season. Of course, they re-signed Bolden last year three days before the season opener. Develin did not have much competition from Henry Poggi for the fullback job.

The question marks at running back are health related more than anything else. Michel and Burkhead did not get on the field at all in the preseason due to injuries. Both are expected to have key roles in 2018. Hill should be in a position to be the bruiser back and his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield is a plus.

It was nice to see Ralph Webb stick on the practice squad. He showed some bounce in the preseason and makes for good depth if injuries continue to strike. I’m excited to see Sony Michel and Burkhead on the field in Week 1 as passing and rushing threats. James White continues to look like one of the best receiving running backs in the league.

Home/Patriots News