It is safe to say that the running back position is a very fruitful position for the New England Patriots. When you look at the position, there are many names available. Sony Michel, James White, Rex Burkhead and James Develin comprise the first unit. Damien Harris, Brandon Bolden, Dan Vitale and Jakob Johnson make up the second unit.
Harris, a 2019 third-round pick, did not see a ton of playing time last season. The Alabama product only carried the ball four times for 12 yards. As far as the top running back group goes, should Harris get a bigger role in 2020? And if so, will it come at Burkhead’s expense?
When healthy, Burkhead can produce. Just look at last year’s Saturday-night affair against the Buffalo Bills. He carried the ball five times for 20 yards and a touchdown, and caught four passes for 77 yards.
It’s also important to remember his contributions in the AFC Championship Game against Kansas City in 2019. He scored the game-winning touchdown, in what was perhaps the biggest moment of his New England career.
However, there is no doubt that injuries are a huge problem for him. Burkhead has been on the injury report often during his time with the Patriots. Most recently, he spent eight games on IR with a neck injury in 2018. That was following time when he missed part of training camp with a knee tear. His first real injury problems with New England were announced on September 17, 2017. He missed four games with a pulled muscle in his chest.
Due to his lack of durability, it makes him a bit more expendable than the other running backs. To be clear, his contributions are valued. However, his numbers — and absences — warrant at least a challenge for his role. It would be wise for the Patriots to use this year as a chance to see what Harris can bring to the table.
There is no doubt that Harris has talent. He showed it at Alabama, as he was a key cog in their rushing attack. During his time in Tuscaloosa, he rushed for over 3,000 yards, including 1,037 yards in 2016. He is a physical running back that would fit well into the offense.
At the very least, the competition for the second running back spot should be an open one in 2020. Burkhead has served as the Patriots well, but his injury history, combined with how many games he has missed over the past couple of seasons, leaves the door open for competition.
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