BACKFIELD ABOUT TO GET CROWDED
Return of Harris adds to running back depth
Damien Harris is eligible to come off injured reserve this week. He was the best back during training camp for the Patriots. And now, with all of the backs performing well, it’s going to be interesting to see how the club utilizes each player, and how much the second-year back from Alabama can help the offense.
Sony Michel, Rex Burkhead and rookie J. J. Taylor all performed well in the 36-20 win over the Raiders Sunday. Tough to argue with 250 yards of production from the run game.
While it’s hard to imagine the Patriots employing five backs on game day this week at Kansas City -- with James White also in the mix -- running backs coach Ivan Fears said he was looking forward to the challenge and juggling act.
“Right now, we’re still waiting to get the final word on whether we have everybody ready to go,” said Fears, speaking Tuesday on a video conference with reporters. “Believe me, it’s a good problem to have. I like it.”
White has been with his family after the death of his father, while his mother remains hospitalized with serious injuries in the wake of the Florida crash that killed Tyrone White.
Fears didn’t know when White would be ready to return.
“All I can say is that we love them and we’re trying to be there for him. We really are,” said Fears. “We’re looking forward to when he gets back, and we’ll take it from there. Whatever he needs ... what we’re going to try to do. Whatever he needs. But I think exactly where he is right now, I’ve got to let him tell you.”
The biggest question is whether the Patriots will wait on Harris, give him more