Patriots RB '09 Review and '10 Preview

Determining who was going to run the ball for the Patriots this season was a tough obstacle for most opponents. With four capable backs, it appeared the Patriots would be set in the running game. Nonetheless the unit battled mediocrity all season long.

Laurence Maroney was the lead back most of the season. He ran for 757 yards and 9 TDs, but after a week 16 fumble on an opening drive against Jacksonville, Maroney went into the "doghouse" ( losing 4/4 fumbles on the season will do that). He didn't carry the ball again that game, was inactive in week 17, and saw only one carry in the Wild Card loss to the Ravens. Like always Maroney appeared to run well in stretches but overall continued to lack consistency. He is signed to an affordable contract at just $825,000 next season, so look for him to be back in the final year of his deal.

Sammy Morris and Fred Taylor only played in 12 and 5 games respectively due to injuries this season. Neither is explosive as they used to be, but Belichick really likes what each brings to the table when they're on the field. Morris should be back for $1 million, but Taylor's $2 million tag may be questionable.

Kevin Faulk's contract is up. The third down specialist ran for over 300 yards and also accumulated over 300 yards receiving. Belichick is known to be ruthless, he won't bring back Faulk just because of his reputation. However, it's not like Faulk has shown many signs of slowing down.

BenJarvis Green-Ellis saw nothing more than garbage time carries. He plays a lot of special teams and is only due $470,000 next year. It's a toss up whether he is back or not.

The Patriots could afford to get younger at the running back position, so keep an eye on their draft to see if they do indeed look for young legs.

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