In terms of losers in free agency, the New England Patriots did not fair too well, losing important pieces like Darrelle Revis, Shane Vereen and Vince Wilfork. While no one is questioning whether or not the Patriots will be successful once again in 2015, they do have some holes to fill on the roster including the running back position and the secondary. With the draft just weeks away, the Patriots are eyeing top running backs in the early rounds.
According to Mike Giardi of CSNNewEngland.com, the Patriots are bringing in Todd Gurley for a visit as the former Georgia Bulldog's stock continues to rise. Gurley might be recovering from a season-ending knee injury, but that is not stopping NFL analysts from ranking him as one of the top all-around players in this year's draft class. Gurley is coming off positive medical reviews which is only driving the interest up on him and the Patriots are joining the number of teams getting Gurley in for a workout.
The interest in Gurley comes after the Patriots have eyed both Melvin Gordon and TJ Yeldon. The idea that New England can land Gurley is slim. ESPN's Todd McShay believes the running back could be taken in the first round and is almost guaranteed to be gone by the time New England drafts at 32. History also shows that head coach Bill Belichick will not hesitate to trade out of the first round if given a good offer. That means New England could wait on a running back till a later round and miss out on the top three options.
There is lingering doubt in the ground game for New England LeGarrette Blount is returning, but the Boston Herald is putting the running back on thin ice after he was suspended for the first game of the season following violating the league's substance abuse policy. There is belief that Blount could be released in favor of a young, athletic rookie. The remaining running backs for the Patriots leave a lot to be desired as Jonas Gray, Brandon Bolden, Travaris Cadet and James White battle for running back spots. The Patriots will add to the group will subtracting some, but the need is not there to trade up for a rookie like Gurley.
There are plenty of mixed opinions on who the Patriots will select with that top pick. Experts like Charles Davis of NFL.com believe New England could make a move for a wide receiver. McShay has the Patriots in line for a cornerback or safety while Rob Rang of NFLDraftScout.com believes a pass rusher is the best move.
