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New England Patriots: Taking a crack at the 53-man roster

By Logan Jakubajtys

Dec 4, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) runs on to the field prior to the game against the Los Angeles Rams at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) runs on to the field prior to the game against the Los Angeles Rams at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford (23) rips the jersey of New England Patriots running back James White (28) as he tries to make a tackle in the fourth quarter. The Patriots defeated the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

Running backs (5)

  • Mike Gillislee
  • Rex Burkhead
  • James White
  • Dion Lewis
  • Brandon Bolden

Usually, the Patriots would carry just four running backs, but I think the hold onto five this time. Mike Gillislee, Rex Burkhead, and James White are all locks to make the team. Dion Lewis will probably make it, but you never know with the Patriots.

Gillislee will likely fill the LeGarrette Blount roll, coming in for short yardage and goal line scenarios. he has the power to run through defenders like Blount used to in New England.

Burkhead and White should split the majority of the carries. White was surprised by his contract extension, but he will be the guy to carry the load in the long term.

Dion Lewis will probably make the cut, but you never know with the Patriots. I believe he’ll make his mark as a kick and punt returner, and we all know how much Bill Belichick loves versatile special teams players.

The love for special teams is why I think Brandon Bolden makes the squad too. He won’t see much time as a running back, but he can certainly become a solid kickoff coverage player.

Fullbacks (1)

  • James Develin

James Develin isn’t going anywhere. Fullbacks are hard to find nowadays, and New England has a great one. Develin may not see much action in the backfield, but he makes the most of every opportunity he gets out there.

Develin also makes his mark on special teams. He’s a true Patriot.

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