New England Patriots: Team Still Has Interest in LeGarrette Blount

The New England Patriots and LeGarrette Blount are reported to have mutual interest in star running back’s return.

With all the offseason additions the team has made so far, the New England Patriots could still use a power-type running back to go along with Dion Lewis, James White and newly acquired versatile running back Rex Burkhead.

So what about LeGarrette Blount?

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Following a visit with free agent running back Adrian Peterson, it appears the team’s attention has turned back to Blount. Perhaps, the whole reason Peterson was even brought in for a visit was for leverage against Blount. Whatever is holding the two sides apart (likely a difference in salary), NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport reported on Monday, that the Patriots and Blount are very interested in his return next season.

"“I know LeGarrette Blount would like to return to the Patriots and I know the Patriots would like to have him back, but at this point the salary hasn’t been more than some of the other running backs on the roster already make, especially some of the newly acquired ones in Rex Burhead,” Rapoport said, via WEEI. “They are just not there yet as far as getting LeGarrette Blount back in the fold for the Patriots. Maybe [the Peterson visit] will move things along, or maybe he is able to get a visit somewhere that will let the Patriots know that he has other suitors. That should transpire this week.”"

So far it has been quiet on the free agency front regarding Blount. The lack of interest is a bit surprising considering the 30-year-old running back is coming off his best season statistically. He not only ran for over 1,000 yards, he also led the league in touchdowns with 18.

However, the fact that he is approaching the other side of 30, may be a factor. It could also be a reason why the New England Patriots aren’t willing to pay him much more than he made a season ago.

With the team having different options to turn to for a power running back (mainly the draft), Blount will likely have to take less money if he truly wants to return to New England.

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As of right now, the Patriots appear to set on remaining patient in making their next move when it comes to the running back position.

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