It has been many years since the Patriots had a dominating run game. Mostly it has been merely complementary to the Brady's short passing game. And the composition of the Offensive line reflected that. It was merely competent, and good at
pass blocking but was not big enough to consistently force the run.
But my suspicion is that things are changing. I suspect that BB is planning to emphasize the run game. Ever since the Pats selected Sebastion Volmer at 6-8 320 lbs, they seem to have opted for tough, physically large and dominant pass blockers; but who could also force the run.
Solder's arrival added another huge piece at the all important Left tackle position. Unlike the typical tall but lean LOT, Solder is a massive at 6-8 and 320 pounds and known for his ability to run block as well as pass block. Unlike the typical smaller Center, Bryan Stork @ 6-4 and 315, is big and dominant in both pass and run blocking. Turning to the Guard positions BB and his coaches selected very big Guard conversions in guys like Cam Fleming and this year in Tre Jackson. Even last years washout, Jon Halapio was a noted big run blocking bruiser. This years second Offensive line selection in Shaq Mason is much more noted for his run blocking than for his quickness at Center in pass blocking. He will have to learn that as a reserve or a PS development candidate.
Don't forget the acquisition of Chandler and LaFell at TE and X WR. Both are good run blockers with size. Even the reserve receivers Tyms and Dobson are sizeable pass receivers who can run block, as can the smurfs Amendola and Edelmen.
The RBBC features big RBs with Blount, Gray, Gaffney, all over 225 #s, and even the 3rd down back candidates weight in at 210 or so.
Every season BB changes his team's emphasis and that makes it difficult for opponents to adapt. I suspect that this year the gargantuan line, receivers, TEs, and RRBs will force the run, and truly making the Pats Offense balanced and unpredictable, when accompanied by the awesome passing game.
