New roster competition heats up in Patriots vs. Commanders game

Aug 25, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; New England Patriots running back Kevin Harris (36) dives for a touchdown against Washington Commanders safety Jeremy Reaves (39) during the first quarter during a preseason game at Commanders Field. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 25, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; New England Patriots running back Kevin Harris (36) dives for a touchdown against Washington Commanders safety Jeremy Reaves (39) during the first quarter during a preseason game at Commanders Field. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports / Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports
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The most discussed roster battles during the Patriots 2024 offseason have surrounded the quarterback, especially as rookie Drake Maye has impressed over the last few weeks. That remains the main competition ahead of roster cuts on Tuesday, and who will inevitably be named the starter is still up in the air, according to Jerod Mayo.

One of the most under the radar battles has been elsewhere on offense, and it's not the wide receivers. It's the running backs.

We know Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson have already locked down the first two spots. However, the third player on the depth chart remains in the air.

Throughout the preseason, JaMycal Hasty has predominately been the standout and was well on his way to securing his spot on the 2024 roster. That might still be the case, but third-year running back Kevin Harris is giving a run for his money with his latest performance in the preseason finale.

He first impressed against the Panthers last week, scoring a 2 yard touchdown and the first score for the Patriots. He then followed that up this week against the Commanders, running an 18-yard pass into the end zone to score.

With back-to-back scores for the offense, Harris is rising the ranks on the running back depth chart despite their undesirable offensive line performance.

It will make the inevitable decision during roster cuts this week much more difficult than a month ago, with Harris and Hasty battling it out later in training camp.

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