Patriots Free Agency Outlook – Running Backs
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Lamar Miller
Miller is a very talented running back and is also the youngest listed here at just 24 years old. He’ll turn 25 in April and is slated to be a free agent in 2016. Miller has been often under-used and underrated while a member of the Dolphins.
Miller had good numbers in 2015, 194 carries for 872 yards, good for a 4.5-yard average per carry to go along with 8 touchdowns for Miami. He also hauled in 47 passes for 397 yards and a pair of touchdowns out of the backfield.
Miller would be a terrific fit for the Patriots offense, he’s an outstanding runner and pass receiver who could be a dynamic force either running or catching the ball out of the backfield. His only drawback as a player has been his so-so ability to pass block which would be an area the team would want to address immediately.
Miami made a decision to limit his carries as they went to a pass-first, pass happy offense that wasn’t a fit for their backs or their QB and they suffered for it. He has made it clear that he wants to go to a team and offense that will utilize him to the most of his abilities. Well New England would be a great place to do just that.
His value especially as a pass receiver has grown each season as he’s caught 26, 38 and 47 passes in his last three years. That would bode quite well with Brady and the Patriots offense. Plus the fact that he, like Ivory would be weakening a divisional rival while helping the Pats.
But the sticking point with Miller will be the same as with Ivory…cash. Miller is probably set to earn in the $6-8 million-dollar range which would be out of the Patriots price range. They have traditionally paid about half that for their running backs.
If they can convince him to sign for a discount and play for a chance at a ring, Miller could be an option. They could ink him to a 2 to 3-year deal that would still give him a chance for a big pay day down the road. But the chances of that happening are pretty remote.
And of course the Patriots could also opt for an option that won’t make Patriots fans happy. They could re-sign Blount and take a running back in the draft. That would fit their typical financial M.O. and look for depth at the end of April.
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