The New England Patriots have a few running backs competing for the starting position, but who will earn it? The top three backs who have a chance to start are Sony Michel, Rex Burkhead, and James White.
Sony Michel
New England drafted Michel with the 31st overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Last season, Michel finished with 247 carries for 912 yards and seven touchdowns. He also added 12 receptions for a total of 94 yards. Michel is a rising star for the Patriots, and he’s still improving and expanding his role.
Rex Burkhead
Burkhead was drafted in the sixth round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Last season, Burkhead totaled 65 carries for 302 yards and three touchdowns. He also had 27 receptions for a total of 279 yards. Recently, Burkhead has become a more important player for the Patriots and a reliable option in the backfield.
James White
White was drafted in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Last season, he accumulated 67 carries for 263 yards and one touchdown. On top of that, White had 72 receptions for 645 yards, and five touchdowns. Over the course of the season, he made some very clutch plays for the Patriots.
Who Will Start?
All three of these running backs are great options for the Patriots. But one of them has to start, and it will most likely be either White or Michel. Burkhead is more of a plug-and-play backup who’s best used sparingly.
White has played well for the Patriots for many years, while Michel is a younger player with less experience. White will probably end up starting over Michel due to his experience and play-making ability.
