New England Patriots Roster 2020 New England Patriots Roster

Top 3 Patriots Roster Questions of 2019-2020

What does Tom Brady have left in the tank?

At this point in his career, Tom Brady has nothing left to prove. The Hall of Fame bound QB enters his 20th season as he looks to win yet another Super Bowl ring. However, he skillset remains elite and that trend is likely to continue moving forward. His passing numbers have actually been better in recent years, possibly indicating that age is just a number for him. The 65.8% completion rate last year beat his career average of 64% and the 4,355 passing yards was right in line for what he’s been averaging the past couple of years. 

This year, expect more of the same from Brady though he might have to work tougher to get the same results. With Rob Gronkowski gone, his receivers will be covered more tightly and Brady will have to have greater precision on his throws. While this might result in more interceptions, I’ve learned you can never doubt Brady or any player of his caliber. I’ll project a 4,250 passing yards season with a 27/10 TD/INT ratio. While that’s not great, it’ll certainly get the job done and get the Patriots into the playoffs once again. 

What does New England plan to do with some many running backs

Rookie Sony Michel started in 8 games last season as was among the Patriots’ best skills position players. He produced 931 rushing yards and 6 TDs in an overall, very well balanced offense. This season, New England will expect similar numbers from their second year back but he’ll be receiving a bit more help this time around. James White and Rex Burkhead will continue to be around and help out in both the passing and running game though neither are great offensive weapons. Burkhead hasn’t been more than a third RB on the depth chart and White’s best moment is still his role in the infamous Super Bowl against the Falcons.  

Joining the crew this year will be Damien Harris who’s coming out of Alabama to New England via the 24th pick in the 3rd round. The #1 recruit out of high school, Harris was a consistent player throughout his collegiate career and has great potential in the league. However, with a crowded backfield and likely limited carries, it remains to see how the Patriots will utilize him. Harris brings a big, physical back that can run through the trenches and help secure yardage in short down situations. 

Replacing Rob Gronkowski

After a great career, Rob Gronkowski finally decided to call it quits after last season. The move forced the Patriots to find a replacement for a role that very few in the game can provide and they did a solid job in filling that void. Both Ben Watson and Matt LaCosse were brought in as his replacement, though the latter will get first crack at the starting gig. With Watson serving a suspension for the first four games, LaCosse will have the opportunity to replicate his 2018 production though on a starter level. In 15 games including 5 starts, he collected 250 yards and 1 TD. While those stats don’t jump out, he’s the clear favorite to start at tight end for at least the first four games.

If LaCosse manages to produce and play well, Watson could very well see himself as the backup moving forward. On the contrary, he could see himself in game action by Week 5 and possibly the starter for the rest of the season should LaCosse struggle early on. In 16 games including 4 starts, he caught for 400 yards and 2 TDs. While those numbers are equally unimpressive, Watson does have extensive starting experience and the pleasure of playing under Tom Brady and Drew Brees earlier on in his career.