a couple of thoughts on the current discussions
1. On the Foster discussion and the seeming log jam at the 3rd down back competition between Foster, Burkhead, White and Lewis. Most teams would be happy to have one good 3rd down RB option. But it also gives you a bit of insight into how the Patriots evaluate their players. I think it you honestly look at this 4some and rated them on talent, James White would come in 4th on most lists. Yet clearly the Pats value him the most.
Why? It's simple. The Pats will always value DEPENDABILITY over talent. Dependable means he won't make mental mistakes, will always be where he's supposed to be, and is an effective blocker. Being dependable also means being AVAILABLE, and this is another area where White has shined, not just for games but for the practices as well.
So while Lewis, Foster and Burkhead all are more talented runners, White will get the first snaps at the position because the Pats know exactly what they will get. And just a note. Another thing the Pats know about White is that they can expect improvement from him year to year. His competitiin haven't proven that...yet.
2. I'm really hoping that Boldin is not on this team this year. Not that I don't love what he's given to the Pats. His story is a great one and his contributions are under rated. He's a great example of another one of the "dependable" yet less talented players that BB keeps. I'm HOPING that Burkhead will replace most of Boldin's snaps on special teams, or someone else. Don't forget that KO coverage has become less critical since the new rules came into being and NO coverage player can't be replaced, because playing ST's is mostly about "want to".
3. I can't see Amendola being cut for the same reason. While clearly less physically gifted than his competiton, DA has proven over and over that he can be DEPENDED on in key moments. The Pats are not going to give up THAT characteristic simply to replace him with better talent. I know that sounds counter intutitive to the usual Pats experiece of getting younger and cheaper, but that's what I think.
4. Right now it is really hard to get a handle on this RB group. I have no idea what kind of rotation they are going to have. Perhaps BB doesn't know either and is happy to let things work themselves out organically between now and October. But as of now, I doubt many Patriot RB's are going to be on people's fantasy squads.
