Travaris Cadet to Patriots: Latest Contract Details, Comments, Reaction

The New England Patriots bolstered their backfield on Tuesday by signing free-agent running back Travaris Cadet.

The team then confirmed the acquisition through its official website.

Mike Reiss of ESPN Boston supplied some context on Cadet's skill set:

Cadet logged just 11 carries in his three years with the New Orleans Saints, but he established himself as a pass-catching threat in 2014, hauling in 38 receptions for 296 yards and a touchdown.

Nick Underhill of The New Orleans Advocate attested to Cadet's pass-catching ability:

New England lost Shane Vereen in free agency to its Super Bowl kryptonite, the New York Giants. Vereen racked up 99 catches over the past two years, so it was necessary for the Pats to find a decent replacement for a similar role; Cadet appears to fit the bill.

As always seems to be the case with a Bill Belichick roster, though, there will be plenty of competition for touches.

Power back LeGarrette Blount figures to be in the fold and collect a considerable chunk of carries. The Pats also extended Brandon Bolden and drafted James White in the fourth round last year. Previously injured runner Tyler Gaffney is waiting in the wings, as is Jonas Gray, who just led the reigning Super Bowl champions in rushing.

Cadet has a long way to go and plenty to prove before he sees a significant role in New England's high-octane offense. Experience as a kick returner may make Cadet an asset on special teams if nothing else.