Maurice Jones-Drew Says He Chose Raiders Over Patriots, Steelers

Maurice Jones-Drew almost joined the New England Patriots’ running back stable.

Jones-Drew signed a three-year contract with the Oakland Raiders on Friday, but he told Mad Dog Radio on Wednesday that his decision also came down to the Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers. The Patriots reportedly were “in the hunt” to sign Jones-Drew.

The Patriots lost running back LeGarrette Blount to the Steelers in free agency and reportedly brought in Michael Bush for a visit this week.

The Patriots have Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen, Brandon Bolden and Jonas Gray remaining at running back. They’re expected to add another player in free agency or the draft. Ridley, Vereen and Bolden are entering contract years.