Running Backs:
Grade: B-
The Patriots running back position was hit hard by injuries this year and the hits started before the regular season even started. James Develin, the versatile fullback who is an outstanding blocker but can run, catch and line up as an H-Back or TE went on IR with a broken leg during the pre-season.
 Dion Lewis was electrifying before going down to a season-ending injury. (USA TODAY Images) |
Dion Lewis came out of nowhere and was having an outstanding season catching the ball out of the backfield as well as running before going on IR with a torn ACL. LeGarrette Blount had an impressive summer and won the job as the “big back” in the offense. He also was off to a good season before landing on IR.
Brandon Bolden and Joey Iosefa filled in where needed. Bolden from STs and Iosefa from the PS. Bolden is a core special teams player and is best utilized there but he’s filled in well. The team signed Steven Jackson who has played in two games and has shown signs of shaking off the rust after not playing in a year.
James White has come on for Lewis, and while he doesn’t have the elusiveness of his predecessor, he’s been constantly improving each week and has been very good in the passing game. White had a huge 68-yard reception on Sunday and nearly scored on the play but set up an eventual score by Jackson.
The backs have been hampered in the running game by an offensive line that just hasn’t opened holes for them to run in. Their production in the passing game has been just fine. Their post-season success will depend on the level of play of the offensive line and how well or poor they perform. But they have a good depth level now with Jackson, White, Bolden and Iosefa. Next up the WRs:
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A former US Army Special Forces NCO and Officer, Steve has been following the Patriots since their days at Fenway Park. Steve has worked in the film industry and wrote as an Military Editor at SpecialOperations.com, 1945.com as a reporter for the Millbury Daily Voice, Millbury-Sutton Chronicle, and the Grafton News. He's also a member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA)
