Wanted: small, shifty running back (doesn't have to be spectacular)

[Ice_Ice_Brady]

I think the Patriots greatly lack versatility in the run game, which makes their schemes incredibly predictable. We have Blount, who has a big frame and is suited better for certain defenses. Blount is a between the tackles guy who accelerates slowly though has better-than-advertised elusiveness. However, we have no one who can run a good draw play or is quick enough to run sweeps outside the tackles. I remember when the Patriots used to use Woodhead, Faulk, or Vereen a lot against certain opponents, much like the Eagles used Sproles effectively yesterday. Not sure exactly the reason, but I'm sure it has to do with the defensive tackles, linebackers, and gaps, where sometimes a small guy like that can even run it up the middle very well. Clearly, the Patriots aren't going to use James White in this role and prefer him as a pass catcher, and I'm glad to see he is improving a lot.

I know NFL players like this don't grow on trees, and Lewis was our guy, but it seems like these guys are incredible undervalued in the NFL, getting small contracts and often being free agents despite having the skills. I'm not expecting another Dion Lewis, but isn't there a small bodied running back out there who is capable of playing on an NFL roster? Or is this the plan for Damaris Johnson? He only has 9 career rushing attempts, so I wasn't sure if they are planning to have him as a change-of-pace guy.

Anyway, the Patriots are so well known for being a chameleon offense that gameplans for each opponent, and they are missing a key piece right now.

 

[JMC00]

Why do you think Trey Williams was signed?

 

[Ice_Ice_Brady]

Why do you think Trey Williams was signed?

I must have missed that signing. Why didn't he play yesterday? Still learning the offense?

 

[BradyFTW!]

I must have missed that signing. Why didn't he play yesterday? Still learning the offense?

He was signed midweek, so presumably that would be it. It'll take some time for him to be ready, assuming he's good enough to make the active roster in the first place.

 

[WaterfallJumper]

Maybe they'll sign me. I'm 5'8, 200 pounds, and I was a professional acrobat. I can walk a tightrope, do flips, and balance on one arm. I also taught parkour for several years. Sure, I've never played football, but I've got better hands than most of the Patriots' players (thanks to juggling), and I'm not easy to knock off my feet. I can leg press over 1000 pounds, and I enjoy full contact sparring, so I don't think I'd have a problem with blocking and tackling.

So, Bill, where do I sign up??