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July 24, 2007
RB snapshot
With training camp set to begin July 27, we'll take a snapshot look at each position on the Patriots' roster, starting with a quick chart, then following that up with a list of each player at the position. The defensive line (Wednesday), offensive line (Thursday), linebackers (Friday), specialists (Saturday), quarterbacks (Sunday) and defensive backs (Monday) have been covered. Today, we look at the running backs:
| STRENGTH | Laurence Maroney's potential. A first-round draft choice in 2006 who was called a coup by Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, Maroney has the tools to be special. |
| WEAKNESS | Health questions. Maroney is returning from offseason shoulder surgery while third-down back Kevin Faulk couldn't finish the AFC Championship game due to a knee injury. |
| TOP QUESTION | Will Maroney return to top form after battling through injuries in the second half of the 2006 season? Will the Patriots miss the departed Corey Dillon in the red zone? |
| FUTURE | Maroney is signed through 2010, as is top backup Sammy Morris. Kevin Faulk (2009) and Heath Evans (2008) also have multiple years remaining. |
Running back personnel:
Heath Evans (7th year) -- When the Patriots need a lead blocker, the 6-0, 250-pound Evans often gets the call. Evans adds value as a regular on several special teams units and he can carry the ball at times.
Kevin Faulk (9th year) -- The shifty Faulk (5-8, 202) is a dangerous weapon on third down, specifically in the passing game. His feel for the passing game has been lauded by Bill Belichick.
Justise Hairston (rookie) -- One of the team's sixth-round draft choices, the Central Connecticut alum will be groomed with an eye on the future. Like most rookies, Hairston (6-1, 220) will initially look to make his mark on special teams.
Quadtrine Hill (1st year) -- The former University of Miami product (6-2, 228) joined the Patriots' practice squad last January. In college, he totaled more receptions (56) than rushing attempts (40). While Hill is a longer shot to earn a roster spot, his pass-catching skills bear watching in camp.
Laurence Maroney (2nd year) -- After sharing carries as a rookie alongside Corey Dillon, the 5-11, 220-pound Maroney figures to take on an increased load this season. He averaged 12.5 carries per game last season, a number that projects to rise to the 16-18 range this year.
Sammy Morris (8th year) -- A seven-year veteran of the AFC East after stints with the Bills and Dolphins, the 6-0, 220-pound Morris essentially replaces Corey Dillon on the roster. Yet his role should be different, as he'll be on more special teams units and can also back up on third down.
Quinton Smith (rookie) -- Smith (5-11, 200) signed as a free agent after the draft and faces longer odds to earn a roster spot. Like sixth-rounder Justise Hairston, performance on special teams will be key.
Posted By:
mreiss | Time: 07:31:38 AM |
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