The Patriots aren’t a running team, and the NFL is hardly a running league. Yet, many Pats fans have clamored for the team to acquire a big-time running back for several seasons.
Some of that has to do with the way the Patriots played with Corey Dillon in the backfield. A larger part, most likely, has to do with the way Laurence Maroney failed to live up to expectations.
Either way, BenJarvus Green-Ellis' breakout season has tempered that outcry, and the Patriots have a backfield that did a nice job of complementing the passing game this year. Here is how the running backs look after the 2010 season.
Running Backs on Final Roster
Thomas Clayton, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Sammy Morris, Fred Taylor, Danny Woodhead, Kevin Faulk (injured reserve)
Key Statistic
Green-Ellis finished 16th in the NFL with 1,008 rushing yards, and he was tied for second with 13 rushing touchdowns. He was one of three 1,000-yard rushers without a fumble (Matt Forte, Ray Rice).
Hot Topic
Faulk's future is up in the air after tearing the ACL in his right knee, and the 12-year veteran hasn't shown his hand one way or the other. He said he would rehab and prepare like he's going to play and then see how he feels, both mentally and physically, before making a final decision. If Faulk wants to come back, head coach Bill Belichick will give him a shot. However, after Woodhead emerged as a legitimate third-down back this season, Faulk might not have as many snaps in his traditional role.
Offseason Question
Will the Patriots try to upgrade the position?
With the way Green-Ellis (a restricted free agent) has progressed in each of his three seasons, there's no reason to believe he'll flat-line just because he surpassed 1,000 yards, and his teammates — Taylor, in particular — really believe he'll keep getting better and better throughout his career. However, the Patriots' three early draft picks put them in position to go after a guy like Mark Ingram from Alabama or Ryan Williams from Virginia Tech. Free agent Pierre Thomas, who the Patriots were reportedly interested in acquiring in a trade last season, could also be a target.
The Patriots won't have any problem if they head into next season with Green-Ellis and Woodhead as their top-two backs, but it wouldn't be shocking to see them kick the tires on another potential starter.
