The New England Patriots made a big addition to their offense recently. They agreed to a one-year contract with free agent running back Ezekiel Elliott, who fills a void in their lineup. New England has been looking for some running back help this offseason, as it was only a matter of time until they added one to the roster.
The Patriots hadn’t done anything to replace Damien Harris, who departed in free agency. The team signed James Robinson earlier in the offseason, but he was released after a few weeks. Now, they have found their man in Elliott.
The market for Elliott, like many of his peers at the position, was slowly developing. He was designated as a post-June 1st cut by the Dallas Cowboys much earlier in the offseason, but it took a few months for him to find a new home.
The No. 4 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft will look to combine with Rhamondre Stevenson to help carry the Patriots’ backfield. He will be a complementary player, likely not dipping into Stevenson’s workload as he is more than capable of handling lead-back roles.
Despite looking to be in line for a diminished role compared to previous seasons in his career, a former Patriots running back believes that Elliott still has plenty to offer. Sony Michel, a Patriots first-round pick in 2018, recently made an appearance on Up and Adams where he shared a strong opinion on Elliott. Michel believes that New England is getting a top-seven back in the NFL.
That is certainly a bold take by Michel. At one time, Elliott was in the conversation as the best running back in the NFL. But, injuries and diminished athleticism have sapped him of the explosiveness that he showcased earlier in his career.
While Elliott may not be a top back in the NFL any longer, he can still fill an important role with the Patriots. Short-yardage and goal-line work is something he can still excel in, as he has scored 22 rushing touchdowns in the last two seasons.
Elliott has the skill set to play passing down as well, but with how good Stevenson is in that area, it is hard to imagine the Patriots moving him out of that role. Early-down work is likely on tap for the Ohio State product.
