Eight's A Crowd in the New England Patriots' Stuffed Backfield

(Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images)

Kevin Faulk

Kevin Faulk has been one of the most dependable performers in his time with the Patriots. The epitome of the “Patriot Way,” Faulk may be one of the best all-around running backs in Patriots history.

With the team since 1999, he has compiled more than 3,100 yards rushing and 3,300 yards receiving while also helping the Patriots win three titles in just 35 total starts. A statistical anomaly, to be sure.

Never desperate for the plaudits that come with his level of production, you rarely hear a disparaging word from or about Faulk.

His versatility as a third down back, proficient and productive both running and catching the ball, is unmatched, and he's been a key performer for Bill Belichick throughout his time in New England.

While he'll be 33 in June, he only has 777 rushing attempts in his career, which is a healthy couple seasons for most backs.

For comparison purposes, veteran back Fred Taylor has 2,428 attempts in his career and is just six months older. Going off just that, you'd think the Patriots would be insane to not give Faulk a roster spot if he seems healthy enough for a full season's workload.

But given his 2008 performance, there would be protests up and down Route 1 if the

Patriots let Faulk walk without a legitimate reason.

Last season was arguably his best year in the league, with Faulk amassing 507 yards and three touchdowns on 83 carries, good for a 6.1 yard per carry average.

He did all that while also putting up 486 yards through the air in 58 receptions for another three scores. So basically, if you made him a full-time player going off those numbers he would've gotten nearly 840 yards receiving or 1830 yards rushing as a full-time back.

Clearly I'm just messing around with numbers now, but it's obvious he's a talented back that has been peerless in his ability to perform in limited time.

Given his low mileage, production, and ability to maintain his physical abilities despite his age, I doubt you'll see “Patriots release Kevin Faulk” on your RSS feeds or doorsteps anytime soon, barring a freak injury or a poorly timed roster bonus for the young old man.

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