Daniel Thomas working out with the Patriots

Former Dolphins running back, Daniel Thomas, was brought in by the Patriots for a workout. After things got crowded in the Miami backfield with the arrival of Knoshon Moreno, the 3-year running back was released during final cuts.

ESPNBoston:

The New England Patriots continue to take a closer look at available free agents, likely with the idea of keeping emergency lists fresh, and they had four players in for workouts on Monday: Running back Daniel Thomas, quarterback Brock Jensen and tight ends Evan Wilson and Brian Wozniak.

So why did the Patriots bring in another running back to work out? Seems like we have a full backfield with Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen, Brandon Bolden, and rookie James White. I think this is a great time to play a quick game of scenarios.

Scenario #1

The Patriots brass always seem to like to stay in tune with what's going on in free agent land. If history were to repeat itself, the Patriots want to be prepared in case one of their running backs go down. Last year, the Pats were saved thanks to LeGarrette Blount. Perhaps Coach Belichick is preparing himself for the worst by having a running back like Thomas on speed dial. This seems like the most likely reason why Daniel Thomas was brought in.

Scenario #2

Rookie running back, James White, was predicted by many to be part of the practice squad or even released. Much to the surprise of many, White earned himself a roster spot. Perhaps, Coach Belichick was initially wrong about White. What if the Pats are thinking of moving White to the practice squad to make room for Daniel Thomas? Not too crazy of an idea because it will allow White to develop and grow. Meanwhile Daniel Thomas is still young and can immediately have an impact on the field.

Scenario #3

The only other running back that might be on the bubble would be Brandon Bolden. He did show flashes of his ability. However, Bolden struggled in the passing game both as a receiver or as an additional blocker. Bolden was seen as the heir apparent to BenJarvus Green-Ellis but fell short to fill in his shoes. This might be a stretch scenario but I could see the Pats parting ways with Bolden to give Daniel Thomas a shot.

If I were to put money on it, I think the Patriots were just updating their player database in the event of injury (a la scenario #1).


Photo courtesy of Joel Auerbach



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