In 2020, the Patriots signed undrafted free agent J.J. Taylor. He was the early spark plug the Patriots needed until the team changed gears and Burkhead stole his thunder.
Taylor is a pingpong ball, acquiring over half of his yards after contact. The 5'5" 185 pound back averaged 4.8 yards per carry. And showed the ability to play bigger than he is. Taylor is often forgotten because he got buried in the stable behind so many quality backs.
Although Taylor flexed as a power back, in college he showed the ability to be a reliable pass catcher. He has the ability to develop into a Rex Burkhead type 3rd down back. Belichick got a steal with Damien Harris in the 3rd round of 2019 and may have done it again if he has the same confidence in his pony as his position coach.
Ivan Fears spoke about the idea of Taylor in the role that White and Burkhead play saying, “You haven’t seen him in that role, but early on, the kid’s got great hands. He’s really, really quick and sudden. He can get in and out of breaks. I think he has a chance to be a combination-type player. A guy who you can use in multiple roles. You’ve just got to play to his strong suit and not put him in a situation where he can be taken advantage of.”
The Patriots are going to need to cut money where they can and they still have Brandon Bolden under contract. Bolden is a lesser Burkhead and can pick up a little extra play time while the team fits Taylor into the role. Bolden has shown flashes of potential and is also a special teams personal, something Taylor could benefit to learn.
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