Who is the top free agent RB target for the Patriots?
The New England Patriots beloved running back James White is a free agent in 2022. White has been a hero for the Pats for quite some time. He was the bowling ball half-back that powered his way for the winning touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI. Many fans believe White should have won the Super Bowl MVP.
White has been an important part of Josh McDaniels offense since he was drafted in the 2014 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end and Bob Dylan’s song named “The Times They Are a-Changin” hits home for White and the Pats. It would make sense if they move on from the 30-year-old RB that’s coming off a season-ending injury.
If White isn’t brought back to Belichick’s empire, who could replace him and be productive with Damien Harris (15 rushing touchdowns in 2021)? Well, here are a few fascinating options.
Giovani Bernard
The long-time Cincinnati Bengals RB will have a less popular market than James White, but he is still very athletic and productive in the run and pass game. Bernard was in the shadow of Leonard Fournette and Ronald Jones in 2021, but he ousted 771 total yards and six total touchdowns in 2020. We witnessed Darren Sproles be an asset late in his career and I expect Gio to be beneficial to a sharp scheme and culture like the Patriots.
Phillip Lindsay
The former UDFA star for the Denver Broncos could be tempted to join the Pats on a prove-it deal. Lindsay had a down season in Houston (as it did the whole team), but he could look to oust another 700+ yard rushing season in New England. If Lindsay doesn’t fill in the shoes for Melvin Gordon in his old home in Denver, he should come to NE in 2022. Harris and Lindsay would be like “thunder and lightning”.
Justin Jackson
Justin Jackson doesn’t hold the same resume and playoff success as White, but he does have a much higher ceiling than the Pats RB. The 25-year-old unveiled 542 total yards and two touchdowns in 2021 with the LA Chargers. Jackson is also the PFF’s ninth-best RB in the free agency group. He’s been in the shadow of Austin Ekeler, but he would be very involved with Mac Jones’s offense for years to come.
