The Patriots have always had a stable of running backs who can do different things during Bill Belichick’s tenure in Nee England. Other than Corey Dillon, you would be hard pressed to find a back who was a quote, “bell-cow” running back. The Patriots have always used a committee approach.

On paper, the Patriots 2018 stable of running backs might be the most talented group of running back Belichick has assembled during his tenure in New England.

As usual, the Patriots use of their running backs will be game plan specific. Each and every week, a different back will be featured in the game plan. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels ability to generate match ups with his backs in the passing game is what makes the Patriots offense so tough to defend.

Here is my breakdown of the position.

Projected Starter: Rex Burkhead

Back-Ups: James White, Sony Michel, Mike Gillislee, Brandon Bolden, James Devlin (FB)

Positional Thoughts: The Patriots have a deep stable of backs who can do a variety of different things. Rex Burkhead is a tough, downhill runner who is also a good receiver out of the backfield. Rookie Sony Michel gives the Patriots a legitimate home run threat who can score in a variety of ways. Once Michel is healthy, expect the Patriots to use him in several different ways to get him the ball.

James White is one of the best change of pace backs in the league and he creates match-ups for the Patriots. White is lethal lined up outside as a flanker versus a linebacker.

Mike Gillislee will have to stave off veteran Jeremy Hill but with a good pre-season, Gillislee can earn a roster spot as the team’s short yardage, goal line back.

James Devlin returns as the starting fullback and a key special teams contributor. Devlin along with Brandon Bolden are two of the leaders of the special teams units along with Matthew Slater and Nate Ebner.

The Patriots are going to commit to running the football more this season but they will also use the backs heavily in the passing game. They have to. The lack of depth at receiver makes it a necessity. It will be fascinating to see the different ways the Patriots use their running backs this season.