Despite rostering three capable running backs, New England is apparently seeking more reinforcement at the position. Free agent Jeremy Hill is set to visit with the Patriots tomorrow, reports ESPN’s Field Yates (via Twitter).
It’s been a relatively quiet offseason for Hill, who was listed ninth in our free agent positional rankings. It doesn’t sound like the former second-rounder will be returning to the Bengals, where he spent the first four seasons of his career. After rushing for 1,124 yards in his rookie season, Hill hasn’t been able to match that production in the past three years.
2017 was arguably the 25-year-old’s worst NFL season, as he finished the campaign with only 116 rushing yards on 37 carries (leading to a career-low 3.1 yards per carry). After having compiled 29 touchdowns through his first three seasons in the league, Hill finished last year with zero. The running back was limited to only seven games (seven starts) after injuring his ankle in November.
The Patriots running back depth chart is already relatively crowded, especially after the team re-signed Rex Burkhead earlier this week. New England is also rostering pass-catcher James White as well as Mike Gillislee (special teamer Brandon Bolden is also on the team). Despite the depth, the Patriots are clearly looking for another back, as they reportedly have interest in former player Danny Woodhead.
If we don’t get Danny back, I’m gonna be so pissed
They don’t need Woodhead. They have someone better in James White. They need a big guy and Hill would fit. Hill, White and Rex would be a nice backfield.
Why on earth would you want Woodhead back? White is better. Gillislee is another option, as well as Burkhead should be #1 on the depth chart.