Countdown to the Draft - Running back: Could Patriots surprise with boost for ground game?

As we count down to the 2019 NFL draft, we'll take the measure of the Patriots by position at this stage on the calendar, and offer up five prospects at each position -- two if they're inclined to invest in the early going, and three more if they're interested in waiting until Day 3. We kick things off with a look at running back.

THE SKINNY

This is not a position of priority for the Patriots this spring, but that doesn’t mean New England isn’t thinking about the future. James White and Rex Burkhead have two more years on their deals, while Sony Michel’s deal runs for another three. (You can also assume part-timer Brandon Bolden and fullback James Develin will be part of the mix as well. And don’t rule out the possible return of Jeremy Hill.) But considering how the Patriots have operated in the past (White and Shane Vereen basically took redshirt seasons in their first year in the league), it wouldn’t be a shock to see New England take a late-round flier on an under-the-radar prospect with an eye toward grooming him for 2020 and beyond.

POSSIBLE EARLY TARGETS

Damien Harris, Alabama

Patriots scheme fit: Three-down back
Why he makes sense: Harris is a 5-foot-10, 216-pounder who served as a nice complementary presence the last few seasons at Alabama to the likes of Josh Jacobs, but also did enough to warrant becoming a second- or third-round possibility this spring. In four years with the Crimson Tide, he finished with 3,070 rushing yards, 6.4 yards per carry, and 23 rushing touchdowns. He has the pedigree, versatility in the passing game (52 catches in his college career) and a nice steadiness (three fumbles in 557 college touches). Like we said, running back doesn’t scream out as a position of need for the Patriots this spring, but Bill Belichick has surprised before.

Miles Sanders, Penn State

Patriots scheme fit: 1-2 downs, short-yardage, special teams
Why he makes sense: After living in Saquon Barkley’s shadow, Sanders got his chance in 2018, and the 5-foot-11, 211-pounder didn’t disappoint. He rushed for 1,274 yards, averaging 5.8 yards per carry and adding nine touchdowns. He has some third-down value as well, adding 24 catches for good measure. In addition, he has a special teams background as a kick returner, having averaged 20.8 yards per chance on 33 returns as a freshman. At this point, Sanders seems well-positioned as a Day 2 possibility.