Rookie RB James White a great asset for the Patriot's offense this season

The Patriots are entering the season with already high expectations, as per usual. They'll surely be a contender for the Super Bowl this season. What are the betting expectations for the Patriots this season? Bet now on the greatest NFL lines here. With a roster stocked with talent across both sides of the ball, there are not many weaknesses on the team. However, running back has long been a position of need.

The team has been able to rely on Stevan Ridley periodically, and Shane Vereen as well. Both however enter their contract years this season. Vereen has been a dynamic playmaker at times, but has also struggled with injuries and some drops. Ridley's story is well documented. His battles holding onto the ball have forced him to the bench each time he's begun to shine on the field. Unfortunately, the team lost their big hitter in LeGarrette Blount this off-season to the Steelers.

Enter James White.

The rookie fourth round running back has been talked about much on this site, and he's starting to gain national media attention as well. Belichick was even asked about White recently on SiriusXM radio:

"He does a good job in the passing game and in the running game -- both inside and outside. Blitz pickup -- we have a pretty extensive offense for him to learn, but he's working hard at it. We'll just let him go and see how it goes, but I think he has the ability to compete on all three downs, in both the running game and the passing game."

Belichick calling White a three down back is a huge compliment. Could he actually be the dynamic running back threat the Patriots have been waiting for? So far in camp, he's been impressive enough to make you think so. He also has another strength aside from his versatility - he holds onto the ball.

James White fumbled only twice in his college career at Wisconsin, that's with 754 total touches. He also had the line of off-season workouts this spring, saying "Ball security is job security" (via NESN).

We all know how sensitive head coach Bill Belichick is to fumbling. Ridley gets the bad rap for fumbles, despite only having three fumbles last year. The easiest way to find yourself in the dog house in New England is to put the ball on the ground.

If he can bring the complete package come Fall: passing, running, blocking and holding on to the ball? You can bet he'll have a secure job on the New England Patriots.