In 2008, the Patriots used the runningback by committee approach to running the ball, and did a very good job, finishing sixth in the NFL in rushing. While no running back even approached 1000 yards, the Patriots had a very good group of running backs. Here are the candidates:
Laurence Maroney
Played and started in three games for the Patriots, totaling 93 yards on 28 carries. While he had a very good game against the Chiefs in the season opener, he really struggled besides that, and was placed on injured reserve with a nagging shoulder injury. Outlook: Maroney, although he has dissapointed thus far, will likely get another crack at carrying the load of the Patriots offense in 2009. If he drops dancing as a hobby, and can stay healthy, Maroney could still be really good. Grade: D
Sammy Morris
Sammy Morris was the Patriots “featured back” for the majority of the season. Ran for a total of 727 yards, seven touchdowns, with a 4.7 yard-per-carry average, all of this in 13 games (7 starts). Showed good deciveness and power. All showed good ability in the receiving game, with 17 catches and over nine yards per catch. Outlook: Morris will get his carries in 2009. The question is, how? Will it be as a featured back or to supplement Maroney? Grade: B+
Kevin Faulk
Kevin Faulk played in fifteen games with three starts in 2008. He led the NFL in yards per carry at 6.1, and he totaled 507 yards on the ground — with three touchdowns. Faulk played the highest % of snaps per game of any Patriots running back. He also recorded a career high 58 receptions, as well as a career high 486 receiving yards, and three touchdowns. Also plays a pivotal role in pass protection. Outlook: Faulk is so valuable to the Patriots, and nothing looks to change in 2009. Although he is getting up there in years, he has never really carried the full load, so his wear and tear is lower. Faulk has his role, and he will keep it. Grade: A-
Lamont Jordan
Lamont Jordan is a bruiser. Period. He ran for 363 yards on 80 carries, and four touchdowns (which all came in the last three games). When healthy, he added a lot as a north-south runner, although, unfortunately, he missed half the season. Outlook: Jordan is a free agent, and although he was one of my favorite players, I think the Patriots have enough depth at running back that they may let him walk. Grade: B
BenJarvus Green-Ellis
An unlikely candidate to carry the load, rookie free agent BenJarvus Green-Ellis stepped into the starting role with several key injuries to the running back position. Green-Ellis is a bruiser as well. He makes quick decisions, lowers his shoulders, and drives his legs. Finished the season with 275 yards and five touchdowns, all with a 3.7 yard per carry average. While he isn’t flashy, he is effective, and may have the potential of a feature back if he can improve his pass protection. Outlook: Green-Ellis will have the chance to earn playing time in training camp this year. If Lamont Jordan doesn’t resign, he should find himself a role in 2009 with the Patriots, and may give a glimpse at the future of the position. Grade: B-
Heath Evans
Evans fell into more of the traditional fullback role in 2008. He totaled 23 yards on 11 carries and 59 yards on three receptions. He proved worthy as a blocker as well. Outlook: Evans looks to retain his role as starting fullback in 2009. While the Patriots could bring in a rookie to compete with Evans, look for Evans to retain his role. Grade: B-
Position Grade: Overall, the Patriots rushing attack was very effective in 2008. They had one of the best rushing attacks in Patriots history, with big games against Denver and Buffalo. Individually, there were no spectacular performances, as a group, this unit was nearly unstoppable. Grade: A-
