Grading the Patriots Addition of Travaris Cadet
With the NFL free agent frenzy well underway, it's time to take an in-depth look at the key signings made by the Patriots throughout the next few weeks.
Player: Travaris Cadet
Position: Running Back
Former Team: New Orleans Saints
Grade: C+
The New England Patriots announced the signing of running back Travaris Cadet on Tuesday evening.
Cadet, a four-year NFL veteran, signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2012 from Appalachian State. The undrafted free agent shined in the preseason, earning a spot on the 53-man roster.
Over his four-year career, Cadet has played in 41 games with one start. The 6'1, 210-pound tailback has 11 rushes for 37 yards, along with 45 catches for 345 yards and two touchdowns in his career.
The bulk of Cadet's production came last season. The 26-year-old had 10 rushing attempts for 32 yards, 38 receptions for 296 yards and one touchdown in 15 games.
Interestingly enough, Cadet's first career touchdown came against the Patriots Oct. 13, 2013 at Gillette Stadium.
Cadet was a Restricted Free Agent, but was not tendered by the Saints making him an Unrestricted Free Agent to start the offseason. He's been primarily used as a third-down back and return man for New Orleans.
While the contract details have not yet been released, the deal is reportedly for two years.
Cadet could potentially help fill the void of Shane Vereen, who left to join the New York Giants at the start of the new league year. While fans should temper expectations, this could be an under-the-radar type signing by New England.
This is a typical Bill Belichick move. Low risk, undervalued player with a specific skill set he envisions of filling a particular role. Cadet is entering the peak of his career, displaying the ability to play in an up-tempo offense and rack up yards after the catch.
Cadet was in a crowded backfield in New Orleans, sharing the role with Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas and Khiry Robinson. He will have the opportunity to fight for a role as a third-down back, joining James White, Tyler Gaffney and others in Patriots training camp this summer.
Cadet's size, catching ability and special teams value is intriguing. It's not the "splash" signing some fans would like, but he has the potential to be a quality addition next season.
Do you have a Twitter account? Be sure to follow me: @PatriotsHaven!
Listen to our “Patriots 4th and 2 Podcast” on Blog Talk Radio as writers Russ Goldman, Steve Balestrieri and I from PatsFans.com discuss the latest Patriots news on Wednesday.
