New England Patriots: Big back options for revamped offense

The New England Patriots have signed 10 free agents to-date seeking to shore up numerous positions on their lackluster 2020 squad but they still need a big back.

For several years since the departure of favorite LeGarrette Blount, the need for a short-yardage back in New England has remained unfilled. None of the current backs have that ability and it’s time for the Patriots to move to rectify the situation.

It has cost New England dearly since Blount’s departure and it needs to be filled before the season starts. The Patriots have flopped in their efforts to replace the big, bulldozing back since 2016 (his 18 TD season), though one could easily make the argument that they haven’t even tried.

Instead, they have signed or drafted backs in the 210 or 215 pounds range who have neither the speed to break big runs nor the power to be effective in short-yardage situations.

This deficiency has caused the Patriots to rely on their quarterbacks in short-yardage since Blount’s departure. Both Tom Brady and Cam Newton have been called upon to fill that role.

It’s a very poor strategy and one fraught with danger. An injury to a starting quarterback can often signal lights out on your season. The Patriots don’t seem to grasp that reality.

Let’s look at a few ways that deficiency can be remedied.