The New England Patriots have made several changes at the running back position this offseason as they let both Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley walk away into free agency. The team is counting on LeGarrette Blount to pick back up on the momentum he has gained in the Patriots' offensive system, but now his future is dicey after getting handed a one-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Now the Patriots are bringing in top draft prospects to help balance the run game.
According to NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah believes the Patriots are in the mix for both Todd Gurley and Melvin Gordon and could actually make a move on them in the first round. Both running backs have met with Patriots' team officials, but the question remains that if the Patriots want to draft a running back, what round will they do it in. ESPN's Todd McShay believes both Gordon and Gurley could be drafted in the first round. New England has more pressing needs than a running back in the first round as they need secondary help, offensive line help and potentially a wide receiver.
The Patriots have been eyeing running backs in both the draft and free agency. The team brought in Reggie Bush for a look, but the San Francisco 49ers ultimately signed him. They have been looking for dynamic weapons to add in the backfield and Gordon and Gurley certainly fit that need. A Tom Brady to Gurley handoff could easily be a spark to the offense, but with stars like Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman on the roster, is a first-round running back necessary? In a draft deep at the position, if the Patriots want a running back, quality options will be in the second and third rounds. TJ Yeldon would be a solid fit while Ameer Abdullah and Duke Johnson are also top options that will be available.
New England could also eye wide receivers in an early round. The team brought in several free agent options for a visit, but never signed anyone. The rotation is highlighted by Edelman and Brandon LaFell while Danny Amendola's inconsistencies have the team searching for depth. New England will not draft someone early, but they could make a move on players like Jaelen Strong, Phillip Dorsett or Sammie Coates in a later round.
