Patriots Upgrade Offense By Signing Antonio Gibson; Running Back's Role?

The New England Patriots have filled their need for a third-down running back by signing former Washington Commanders rusher Antonio Gibson

FOXBORO -- While much of the regional fan base continues to clamor for some much-help at both receiver and along the offensive line, the New England Patriots helped to bolster their running game's third-down prowess by agreeing to terms with former Washington Commanders running back Antonio Gibson.

Gibson, a four-year NFL veteran, has a multi-faceted skill set which should allow him to become a rapid, yet comfortable fit with the Patriots. Throughout his tenure in Washington, he has amassed 2,643 yards on 642 attempts with 22 touchdowns. However, the Memphis product has proven to be as effective as a backfield receiver. He has caught 172 passes for the Commanders, while accumulating 1,283 yards and seven touchdowns. 

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Though a high-ankle sprain suffered in Week 13 would sideline him for the remainder of the season, Rhamondre Stevenson finished the season with 619 yards and four touchdowns, while averaging four yards per attempt. He was also a notable contributor in the passing game, catching 38 passes for 238 yards and seven touchdowns.

In addition to his dual-threat capabilities on offense, Gibson is also quite adept at returning kicks. Since 2022, the 25-year-old has returned 35 kicks for 826 yards averaging 23.6 yards per return. Last season, the Pats relied on a committee of veteran receiver Jalen Reagor and rookie Kayshon Boutte in the absence of former All-Pro Marcus Jones, who is primarily used on punt returns. 

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In the final analysis, Gibson's arrival fills the Patriots need for a third-down option behind lead back Rhamondre Stevenson. Though a high-ankle sprain suffered in Week 13 would sideline him for the remainder of the season, Stevenson finished the season with 619 yards and four touchdowns, while averaging four yards per attempt. If fully healthy (as expected) at the start of the season, Stevenson is expected to be a focal point of new coordinator Alex Van Pelt's offense. 

Veteran free agent Ezekiel Elliott assumed the lead back duties in Stevenson’s absence and performed well, leading the team in both rushing yards (642) and receptions (51). Second-year rusher Kevin Harris served as the team’s top reserve in the latter part of the season, while reserve Ja'Mycal Hasty was mostly a healthy scratch. 

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