New England Patriots: Mike Gillislee gets his chance to play with the best
Running back Mike Gillislee met with the media for the first time since joining the New England Patriots on Tuesday and sounded very excited about his new opportunity.
It looks like New England Patriots fans are going to love Mike Gillislee. The former Bills running back officially became a member of the team after Buffalo decided not to match an offer sheet he signed with the defending Super Bowl champions.
While he had to wait awhile to know which team he would suit up for heading into the 2017 season, Gillislee told the media on Tuesday that he is glad he landed where he did.
Now with a chance to play with a winning organization, the 5-foot-11, 209-pound running back is ready to embrace being a apart of the best.
"“And I ended up with the best, being here, to a winning squad,” Gillislee said during his first media session, via the Boston Herald. “No offense to Buffalo, but just to come here and continue helping this team win games.”More from Chowder and Champions3 Midseason Chaim Bloom Decisions That Have Killed the 2023 Red Sox10 Patriots Who Will Be Cut by Tuesday’s Roster DeadlineMLB Screws Red Sox Fans With Broadcast for Mookie Betts Return3 Most Underpaid Celtics Heading Into the 2023 SeasonRed Sox Continue Rollercoaster Season With Massive Win"
In joining the Patriots, Gillislee is part of a crowded backfield that consist of Dion Lewis, James White, Rex Burkhead, Brandon Bolden, D.J. Foster and undrafted free agent LeShun Daniels.
While his two-year, $6.4 million contract suggests he will be at the top of that depth chart, Mike Gillislee knows he will still have to work hard for his opportunity. He also knows he brings something to the backfield that is now missing without the services of LeGarrette Blount.
"“My physicality and my work ethic,” He said explaining what he adds to the team. “I feel like I’m gonna come to work every day and give it my all to better this football team.”"
Playing behind LeSean McCoy last season, Gillislee had the best season of his career. He carried the ball 101 times for 577 yards with eight touchdowns and really displayed flashes that he could be a featured running back.
Next: Hanley Ramirez is heating up and he continues to crush homers
What he showed on the field obviously caught the attention of the Patriots. He has the opportunity to really become something special in New England, which is something he sounds ready for.