The New England Patriots will start up their season in less than a week and the 53-man roster is finally set.
Bill Belichick has an idea of who he key players will be this season and Cam Newton is definitely one of them. Newton will need a ton of help from his skill players, but the running back crew will play a more important role than usual in Foxborough. New England has a stout offensive line and four solid running backs that will help push him through the growing pains.
Sony Michel, James White, Rex Burkhead and Damien Harris will handle the backfield duties this season — but, who will thrive? Michel has been the primary back for the past two seasons, and he should maintain that role this year as long as he’s healthy.
He spoke to reporters on Sunday and appears to be ready for the Patriots’ Week 1 matchup against the Miami Dolphins.
“I would say I am in the best position possible right now to be able to go into Game 1 and be able to perform as best as I can,” Michel said. “The coaching staff, the training staff has done a great job preparing me for this opportunity. All I can do is go out there and give it all I have.”
Every day is a work in progress. Every day is a day to get better for me. Beginning of the season, you’re never going to feel like you’re at the best shape. So for me, I am just working to get better. I feel good. I am just going to keep trying to build from there.”
Michel spoke briefly about his experience with Newton and he fits with the team.
“I would say just being in a backfield with Cam Newton and knowing what he’s capable of, and everybody in this league knowing he’s capable of has to respect his game, I appreciate that with being able to play alongside with another great player,” Michel said.
If healthy, Michel will be the team’s workhorse, but Harris is expected to be a sneaky good player that makes a name for himself this season.
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