New England Patriots: 3 ‘grinders’ looking to make a name for themselves
1. J.J. Taylor is grinding himself up that New England Patriots running back depth chart
While all eyes have been on Rhamondre Stevenson as a running back to watch out for on the Patriots depth chart, an undrafted rookie free agent from 2020 is showing that he can be one of those “grinders” Julian Edelman is talking about.
With James White returning on just a one-year deal, it is more than likely that the Patriots already have their eyes on
J.J. Taylor eventually taking over that third-down back role from White. They may not have envisioned that happening as soon as 2021.
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In the first game of the preseason, it was Stevenson shining in the spotlight with his performance, looking like a faster version of LeGarrette Blount. In the second game of the preseason, Taylor looked like a younger Dion Lewis making defenders miss with his shifty moves and burst of speed.
With a game-high 93 yards and a touchdown on just 12 carries, Taylor has his eyes set on a roster spot which will force Belichick into a decision regarding White, Sony Michel or Brandon Bolden. It’s a good problem to have says the coach.
"“It’s a good group,” Belichick told reporters following the game, as transcribed by WEEI. “Those guys work hard. They’ve all gotten opportunities and showed positively in their opportunities. I think competition brings out the best in all of us. I think those guys are competing well and they’re all contributing. It’s a great situation.”"
It’s a great situation indeed and one that could mean the end of Bolden in New England. The veteran running back has been mostly used on special teams, so if there is a spot for Taylor it will be as that fifth running back who also has a role on special teams as a returner.
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With Sony Michel running well and obviously Damien Harris, the New England Patriots may have the deepest and most talented running back group in all the NFL. J.J. Taylor will make it even more dynamic.