5 free agent running backs that could bolster the Patriots offense

Running backs the Patriots should look at in free agency.

3. Isaiah Crowell

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Crowell has carved out a solid career for himself after going undrafted in 2014 out of Alabama St. He spent four seasons in Cleveland where he rushed for 3,118 yards and 21 touchdowns. In 2018, Crowell signed with the Jets and tied his career-high in yards per attempt (4.8) while splitting the workload with Bilal Powell and Elijah McGuire. Just one year into his three-year, Crowell was cut to make room for Le’Veon Bell. He missed all of last season due to a torn Achilles suffered in a team workout with the Raiders just a month after signing with them.

It’s hard to expect much from any player coming off of a torn Achilles, never mind a running back. At the position where cutting and explosiveness is imperative, that injury can be devastating. However, Crowell will likely come at the veteran minimum or a hair above it. It could be a low-risk, high-reward deal that could pan out well. He’s an all-around back who could help in New England.