The Patriots backfield is so crowded that, at this point, it’s difficult to predict who is going to prosper this season. Morris is not a special running back, so he will likely just be one of the pack used in a rotation. Unless a massive wave of injuries hit, his value has dropped considerably.
('09 Proj: 120 att, 500 yds, five touchdowns) ~Frank Mazzola
___
Morris led the depleted Pats backfield in attempts, yards and touchdowns last season but with the way in which New England using its backfield, it is difficult to trust Morris as even a #2 back heading into next year. The depth chart in New England is just too crowded to depend on him. A #3 back here and a decent bye week replacement.
('09 Proj: 700 total yds, 5 touchdowns) ~Steve Cavanagh
___
I’m very hesitant about trusting anyone from the Patriots running back committee. Morris was solid at the end of 2008, but he just turned 32 and again has to fight off a plethora of other running back options, which I think cripples any potential Morris may have in that offense. Bye week running back at best, and I don’t think he even reaches that level in 2009>
('09 Proj: 135 att, 621 yds, 6 touchdowns, 15 rec, 105 yds, 0 TDs) ~Robb Perkins
___
The Patriots added running back Fred Taylor to the mix this offseason, but nothing changes with the Pats offensive philosophy. Taylor’s carries will come at the expense of Maroney and Green-Ellis. Look for Morris’ production to be remarkably consistent to last years.
('09 Proj: 150 att, 900 total yds, 6 touchdowns) ~Jeremy Fischer
___
Last year Sammy Morris did quite well for himself when given the opportunity to take over New England’s rushing attack. Unfortunately, injury doesn’t favor opportunity. Morris now finds himself behind Laurence Maroney and Fred Taylor on the depth chart. You can practically guarantee that Kevin Faulk will receive some playing time as well. Stay away from this one.
('09 Proj: 60 att, 250 yds, 2 touchdowns) ~John Kezer
___
Normally I’d say stay clear of a 32 year old running back, especially one that is sharing carries with four other backs, but in Morris’ case he hasn’t been overused (only 615 carries in nine years) and the Patriots love the guy. As long as the Pats are content to use all of their running backs, none will have top end value. But if last year is any indication then Morris could be your best bet, based on his red zone ability alone.
('09 Proj: 290 total yds, 2 touchdowns) ~Jon Rascon
___
Stick a fork in him. The age of 32 is the death knell for a GOOD running back. Let alone one that was average in his prime and buried on a depth chart behind flat-out better options. I'm predicting he's not even on the Pats roster come regular season.
("09 Proj: zilch) ~Rick Perkins
