Lewis was third on the team in receptions with 36, after Julian Edelman’s 57 and Rob Gronkowski’s 44. He lacks Lewis’ strength and jump-cut ability, but he would give the Pats a skill set that they don’t now have on the roster.
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While individual player’s egos might be marginally important, right now it looks like the New England Patriots’ management is just trying to preserve the team’s undefeated, 8-0 season.
It was a noncontact injury for Lewis, who appeared to reach for his leg at the tail end of a 14-yard reception from Tom Brady in the third quarter. He was one of the more reliable running backs the Patriots have delivered to fantasy owners as of late. White had three catches for 26 yards in Week 7 against the Jets when Lewis was down with an injured abdomen. In limited opportunities, such as the Green Bay game a year ago, Bolden exhibited nice elusiveness and vision, slicing between defenders on a 12-yard run and then on a 6-yard touchdown scamper. “He’s done that for us in the past”. He’s a good blocker in pass protection. “I’m glad we have him”. Blount will receive more carries, while Bolden is likely to serve as the primary backup for both roles as he takes on his normal duties as a core four special teamer. Ray Rice will not be considered, and Knowshon Moreno is another intriguing name but he is still recovering from a major knee injury. White’s biggest strengths are his hands and blocking prowess, so it seems he should get most of the reps Lewis is leaving behind in the passing game.
That won’t be replicated, so the Patriots will veer off in a new direction without Lewis.
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Montee Ball, a former second-round pick and college teammate of James White’s, is also a free agent.
