The Patriots will be boosted in 2025 with a new crop of young players that feature eleven draft picks, from fourth overall pick Will Campbell to Mr. Irrelevant Kobee Minor. Their rookie additions didn’t stop there, however. Vrabel and company were active in rookie free agency, scooping up some players who’d put some strong college play on film.
Eastern Washington’s Efton Chism III has turned heads, TSU slot corner Jordan Polk has upside, and Alabama tight end C.J. Dippre is as physically strong as they come. One player that may have had the most impressive college career of them all is UC Davis alum Lan Larison.
The running back was a dual-threat player during his time on the West Coast, totaling over 2,300 yards during his final season, 847 of which came through the air. There’s no doubt that, like all UDFAs, his battle to make the roster will be a tough one.
The Patriots currently roster three running backs sure to get touches this season: Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson, and Antonio Gibson. Despite this uphill battle, NBC Sports Boston’s Phil Perry has the UC Davis product sneaking onto the 53.
Lan Larison's role in the Patriots' offense could be sneaky good
If he can find a way to sneak onto the roster, it will be as an RB4, at least to start. Despite the names mentioned earlier, there is some potential for upward mobility.
Stevenson struggled significantly with fumbles last year, leading the league. Gibson offered a nice change of pace and managed to break off a few long runs, but when asked to be below, he struggled. In games with 12+ carries, he averaged just 3.3 YPC.
Henderson will undoubtedly have a role, but given his status as a rookie, he is an unproven commodity. Offering the running back room another body with collegiate success could be wise, albeit Larison being a rookie himself.
Even if Larison doesn’t find his way onto the roster, he’ll likely be one of the top practice squad players, which lends itself to a few promotions during the year. Given the nature of the running back position and the wear that often comes with the job, seeing him take a handful of carries this season at least wouldn’t be shocking.
Additionally, he’ll likely find a way to contribute on special teams, perhaps as a kick returner, in fellow running back Antonio Gibson’s job last year. No matter what role the former Aggie fills this season, be it as a member of the 53 or as a practice squad member, it will rely heavily on his camp and preseason performance.
The Patriots play their first preseason game against the Commanders on August 8 at 7:30 pm: keep an eye out for the prolific Idaho native.