New England Patriots 2020 Draft: 4 big running backs to consider

The New  England Patriots need a big running back in their offense.  Here’s a look at four NFL prospects to consider.

The New England Patriots couldn’t get a yard or two when they really needed it on numerous occasions in 2019. Why not? One reason, of course, is that their offensive line was devastated by health and injury issues much of the season.

Another more obvious reason is size. The current stable of New England backs are on the small side and can’t grind out a yard when they need it, on their own.

I was an advocate last season of bringing back free agent back LeGarrette Blount for the stretch run. Blount is a 247 pound wrecking ball with finesse who could get a yard on his own, and more. The Patriots chose to run with their own backs and it cost them games that they could ill-afford to lose. They paid for the lack in this area. Blount was available for cheap and would have been a great option. They passed.

Can the 2020 draft provide a big back to the New England Patriots?

What’s a “big back” and can the Patriots draft one in the 2020 NFL draft next month? Not an easy question to answer. First, what is a “big back”. I define him as a back who is at least 220 -225 pounds, but preferably greater weight.

While the NFL new model offenses feature smaller more versatile and elusive backs, 2019 proved that having a one or two yard machine is essential unless you have a super back. The New England Patriots do not have that type of back.

Four big backs available in this year’s draft.

So who’s available in this year’s draft that might be a solution? SI.com has a top 20 running backs ranking. How many of these meet the self-applied standard of 220 pounds or more?

Here are the backs on SI’s top 20 list who fit this bill for the New England Patriots.