Three running backs have proven to be tremendous values for their respective teams this year, Will Eddowes of Over The Cap writes. That list includes Patriots tailback LeGarrette Blount, who is earning just $1MM on a one-year deal with $100K in full guarantees + $1MM in incentives. The Patriots have been leaning more on the run game this year than they have in recent seasons and that’s partially because of Blount’s effectiveness. The question now is whether the Patriots can retain him for next season. Blount has certainly earned himself a pay raise but the Patriots often prefer to replace free agents with cheaper options. Darren Sproles of the Eagles and Theo Riddick of the Lions are also highlighted as strong values.
Here’s a look at the AFC East:
- Re-signing Brian Winters should be the Jets‘ top priority this offseason, Connor Hughes of NJ.com writes. After a rough first two years in the NFL, Winters has improved now that he has moved from left guard to right guard. So far this year, he ranks as one of Pro Football Focus’ best interior offensive linemen and he has been a bright spot in an otherwise dreary year for Gang Green. The Jets are going to have to get themselves new offensive tackles and they could be in the market for a center, but the 25-year-old is a player that must be kept. For his part, Winters wants to stay. “100 percent,” Winters said when asked if he wants to return. “I love what has been going on here. I would love to continue to play here. I’ve built something here. I don’t want to leave it.“
- Bills running back Mike Gillislee has signed with NFL agent Ron Butler, as Liz Mullen of Sports Business Journal tweets. He was formerly repped by Global Sports Advisors. Gillislee has shown potential as the primary backup to LeSean McCoy in Buffalo. He will be eligible for free agency after the season is over. For now, he’s on the books for just $600K.
- Yesterday was the Dolphins‘ deadline for activating Dion Jordan and they declined to put him on the 53-man roster. Miami also shut Mike Pouncey down for the season while adding quarterback T.J. Yates.
Daren Sproles signed a one year extension with the Eagles over the summer. Not set to be a free agent.
Hope the Patriots have some sort of understanding with Blount about a position with the team post-retirement. Dude’s been making (relative) pennies while playing for them considering what he’s been able to do in return.