After masterfully assembling a draft class that is already earning rave reviews and reinstating optimism among fans, the Patriots continued their early success by signing even more talent with their group of undrafted free agents. There weren't many holes left to address on the roster, so they were able to bring in some of the more sought-after free agents to really put the team over the top.
One player, in particular, is already making headlines for his potential on the offense, especially since Drake Maye's immediate future is the biggest priority for the 2025 season.
Although they didn't necessarily need another running back since they selected TreVeyon Henderson in the second round, the Patriots signed perhaps the most talented undrafted player at the position in Lan Larison out of UC Davis, who has already received comparisons to 49ers' Christian McCaffrey.
While that might be a bit presumptuous considering we are yet to see what Larison can do on the field, it appears the Patriots have a lot of faith in what he will bring to their offense based on the contract they offered him once the draft was completed.
Lan Larison appears to be this season's sure thing among the Patriots' UDFAs
His impressive career at UC Davis has already sparked a lot of excitement around Larison's potential on the Patriots. He joins a packed running back room led by Antonio Gibson and Rhamondre Stevenson, with rookie TreVeyon Henderson set to be the RB3 this fall.
Henderson was considered a top-3 prospect in this year's draft class, so he will inevitably make the team. But based on Larison's comp, with the latest being Rex Burkhead by The Athletic's Chad Graff, and the massive contract Mike Vrabel and Co. gave him, it might be fair to assume Larison will be the fourth running back on the roster in 2025.
The Pats giving Lan Larison $175k guaranteed is a lot of money for a UDFA. Clearly they see some promise in him and a potential path to the 53-man. https://t.co/Jyy3oJ2LVa
— Chad Graff (@ChadGraff) April 28, 2025
Given the amount of money Larison is guaranteed, speculation suggests he will make the team unless something unexpected happens. But it's important to remember that the Patriots also gave UDFA quarterback Malik Cunningham a rich contract, as well, and his tenure in New England was chaotic and far from secure.
The fortunate part for Larison is that he plays a much less criticized position than Cunningham, and it should be much easier for him to make the team. There's also no loyalty from the new regime with returning players, so rookies have a good chance to make such an impression that Vrabel will want to keep them instead.
Larison will have an excellent opportunity to stand out this summer and secure a spot on the 53-man roster. Considering his college resume is unmatched, recording 284 carries for 1,465 yards and 17 touchdowns just on the ground, it's hard to imagine the Patriots would feel comfortable releasing him or putting him on the practice squad when another team could poach him.