The Patriots don’t mind taking chances when it comes to the draft. Last year’s decision to trade up twice in the first round to bolster their defense is clear evidence of that. Now, Bill Belichick and company seem to be feeling out another risky move.
South Carolina running back Marcus Lattimore was one of the most promising college prospects at the start of last season, but a second serious knee injury has raised some concerns over his future in the NFL. But those concerns aren’t stopping the Patriots from pursuing him.
Lattimore has scheduled visits with both the Patriots and St. Louis Rams, according to USA Today. No date has been released for the visit, but we are certain it will be at some point in the next few weeks.
So, the Patriots must be at least somewhat interested in the talented running back, even if he still has a long road back to full recovery. They also met with Lattimore at the NFL combine in Indianapolis back in February, meaning the interest might be more than mere curiosity.
With Stevan Ridley emerging as the No. 1 option out of the New England backfield and Shane Vereen blossoming into a versatile third-down back last season, there doesn’t seem to be much of a need at the position. Then again, when you can fleece arguably the best college tailback — when healthy, of course — since maybe Adrian Peterson for a mid- or late-round pick, it’s at least worth a long look.
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