The deadline has come and gone for the Buffalo Bills with running back Mike Gillislee as the New England Patriots officially inked the tailback to a two-year, $6.4 million contract Monday.
The 26-year-old gave the Patriots headaches rushing over 100 yards averaging just over six yards a carry and a touchdown in their two divisional meetings.
He then gained more attention and notoriety after the Bills’ starting running back LeSean McCoy went down with an injury and so he grabbed the mantle in the All-Pro’s absence.
Gillislee was very reliable in many aspects of the running back position, according to NFL.com.
“In a full-time backup role to LeSean McCoy, Gillislee was uber-efficient last season, earning 5.7 yards per carry and eight touchdowns on 101 (total carries),” Kevin Patra wrote. “The 26-year-old flashed speed and elusiveness on the edge, along with a willingness and ability to pound the ball between the tackles despite being listed at 219 pounds..”
Adding Gillislee further signifies that the Patriots are now ready to move on from LeGarrette Blount and that the team is looking at a youth movement at the position.
Gillislee joins the crowded backfield featuring Dion Lewis, James White, Rex Burkhead and Brandon Bolden.
