Analyzing the terms for FB Danny Vitale’s contract with the Patriots

The contract and the role of FB Danny Vitale.

The New England Patriots were able to add another veteran fullback to the surprisingly full position on the depth chart when they added Danny Vitale.

Since his addition, the presumed starter, James Develin, who missed nearly all of last season with a neck injury, retired from the NFL. Now, Vitale and Jakob Johnson are slated to compete for the job.

Vitale, 26, has spent time with three teams in his four-year career; a training camp and practice squad stint with Tampa Bay, two years with Cleveland, and two years with Green Bay. In his career, the fullback has brought in 15 receptions for 145 yards and has carried the ball once for three yards.

As Ben Volin of the Boston Globe broke down, Vitale received a one-year contract that has only $100 thousand guaranteed, so it seems as though the fullback will have to earn his spot on the 53-man roster.

Chances he makes the roster: 55%

Vitale’s small guarantee doesn’t necessarily mean he won’t make the team. At the time of his signing, Develin’s future was up in the air, so he was more of an insurance deal. Now, he’s obviously slated to fit a much more important role.

Johnson competing for the position after being around the team for a season could give him a slight advantage. However, Vitale has more in-game experience. This battle, while not an exciting position to watch, will be interesting follow through training camp and the preseason.

What it means for Vitale

When the 53-man cuts come down, it’s expected that Vitale will be on the roster. He’s the more experienced of the two backs and has the guaranteed money on the books. With Johnson’s release, there would be no penalty, and he could easily be signed back to the practice squad.

Vitale has an important role in New England this year. As the starting fullback, he’ll be responsible for clearing out linebackers and defensive backs in front of Sony Michel. Develin did an outstanding job protecting Michel and giving him just a bit more time to make his move. After Develin went down with his neck injury, Michel was nowhere near as productive. The Patriots hope Vitale can help the running back run like the first-round talent he was drafted as.

It also seems as though the Patriots have been interested in the fullback for a while, as they met with him following his Pro Day.

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