New England Patriots Running Backs in 2008 and Beyond

The Patriots have placed Laurence Maroney on injured reserve today because of shoulder problems. Maroney was the Patriots’ first round draft pick in 2006 and has been somewhat of a disappointment. The last two years he has constantly been injured and when he is in the lineup he doesn’t see holes very well and runs tentatively. I suspect Maroney might get one more shot next year to see what he can do, but I don’t expect to see him in the league too much longer. It’s unfortunate because he has the potential to be an excellent running back with his speed and moves in the open field.

Personally I am tired of Maroney and sorely disappointed. He dances around in the backfield without hitting the holes that are open and runs scared. He is all about avoiding contact.

I think he is a complete and utter bust as a first-round draft pick, and I see nothing in his development that would lead me to believe he will ever be a decent running back in the NFL.

He has the size, speed, and skill, he just doesn’t seem to have the heart or his shoulder injuries are such that he just can’t do it. Either way, I would like to see the Patriots look to free agency to get another running back.

I really don’t see any promising backs coming out of the draft this year. The problem is, what free agent running backs will be available that could be a solid featured back?

An aging Edgerrin James is the only one that comes immediately to mind, but he’s seen his better days.

I suspect that the Patriots will go into to 2009 and give Maroney one more shot at being the featured back, but make sure they have enough reliable backups on the roster just in case.

Despite being in his 30’s, I suspect Morris very likely will be one of those backups, as well as Green-Ellis. Faulk should continue in his role as third-down back. I don’t expect to see Jordan back because the Patriots can’t afford to have a stable of running backs who are injury prone.

For now, the Patriots have done quite well in the running game despite their issues at running back. Next year, I definitely expect to see some moves in this area, although probably nothing spectacular.

Posted in National Football League   Tagged: Laurence Maroney, National Football League, New England Patriots, NFL, Sports   

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