New England Patriots: Pierre Strong Jr drafted to replace Damien Harris
Were the New England Patriots looking ahead with the selection of Pierre Strong Jr. in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft?
With a backfield group led by Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson, the last position of need in the 2022 NFL Draft appeared to be running back. But as highlighted by his first two selections of the night, you never know what’s going on in the mind of Belichick.
While linebacker was the biggest need for the team, the Patriots unpredictable head coach and general manager selected just one, but two running backs on Day 3 of the draft which had fans scratching their heads and wondering about the future of Harris who is coming off a career season.
New England Patriots add running back competition in drafting Pierre Strong Jr.
The selection of Strong with the No. 127 selection and Kevin Harris with the No. 183 pick seems to be less about depth and more about Damien Harris’ future contract as he is entering the final year of his rookie deal. Here we go again with money and the Patriots playing it cheap. But, at the running back position, does Belichick feel it’s more about the offensive line and less about the player?
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Although Harris was a touchdown machine in 2021, he does have some injury concerns and with Stevenson expected to make a leap in his second season, there will be some major competition at the position with the addition of both Strong and the other Harris.
As proven season after season in the NFL, a team can never have enough good running backs. It’s a position that wears players down and selecting Strong adds depth as well as gives the team a player to eventually replace Harris if money does become an issue.
So, what does the South Dakota State product bring to the table?
Similar in height, Strong is slightly lighter than Harris in weight, but he does bring a similar versatility to the team. With electric speed and the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, one would project Strong as more of a James White replacement, which may be more realistic, but his impressive 7 yards per carry during his career at South Dakota State showcases a running back who can also run between the tackles.
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Like the group of running backs he is joining, what stands out about Strong is that versatility mentioned. With his speed and pass-catching ability, the New England Patriots are getting a player willing to morph into whatever style is needed, which is obviously music to Belichick’s ears.
"“I’m more so, do anything for the team type of guy so, anything – just helping the team out any way I can,” Strong said during his introductory call. “Out of the back field, special teams, anything of that nature so, that’s just my style, man, I’m just willing to help the team win a Super Bowl and that’s just me.”"
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Whether he was selected to replace Harris or simply to add depth at the position, Pierre Strong is a smooth, downhill runner who can do everything, including recognizing and picking up blitzes. In all, he is a running back that will at least compete with reps and in doing so will push both Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson.