3 thoughts on Patriots' passing game: James White, Gordon vs. Dorsett, sharper play action

We’re only six weeks into the regular season, but this is shaping up to be one of the more unique years in the recent history when it comes to the Patriots’ passing game. Here are three quick thoughts on where things stand.


1. James White could be the first running back of the Tom Brady/Bill Belichick Era to lead the team in receptions. We already knew White had a chance to have a significant impact on the New England offense, but before everything is done, he could end up with 90-plus catches. He has 37 through six games, 11 more than Rob Gronkowski. He’s on pace for 99 catches this season, which would be a franchise record for most catches in a season by a running back and the most catches in a season by any member of the Patriots’ offense since Julian Edelman had 105 catches in 2013. As long as nothing crazy happens, he’ll remain one of the two or three most important parts of the passing game the rest of the way.