James White, Running Back

The last few seasons, the Patriots have used James White in a more match up based role. With the departure of Dion Lewis though, White will need to step up into a more prominent role. White is definitely capable of doing so, as he’s shown his abilities on the biggest stages. The Patriots love to use White out of the backfield as a weapon in the passing game, as they do with a couple other guys. White is very quick and agile, while he’s a huge mismatch against linebackers in the open field.

Brady loves running backs who can be a huge threat in the passing game as it helps him to carve up defenses. That’s why Brady’s eyes light up when White is on the field. Since 2015, White has caught the ball 156 times for 1,390 yards and 12 touchdowns in the regular season. Those are very solid numbers for a running back. White really made his name be known in Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons just two years ago.

Of course, everyone remembers the 25-point comeback, but White was a huge contributor to that. White finished the game with six carries for 29 yards and two touchdowns. He also proved to be unstoppable in the passing game, catching 14 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown. The 14 receptions were the most of anybody in Super Bowl history. White would have gotten the Super Bowl MVP if it weren’t for a guy named Tom Brady.

The Patriots still have Rex Burkhead on the roster, plus they drafted Sony Michel from Georgia. These guys could possibly cut into White’s workload, but the Patriots love White so he’ll likely be used more consistently than previous years. New England also signed Jeremy Hill who will likely garner the load as the RB who will run the ball majority of the time, especially on the goal line. White is usually a huge performer in the playoffs, but this season he will be used in a more renowned role in the regular season.

Next Page: No. 2