The New England Patriots drafted a running back in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft for what is likely a handful of reasons.
Sony Michel was one of the best all-around running backs in the entire draft and the Patriots needed to replace Dion Lewis, who left in free agency. The Patriots saw how the New Orleans Saints used then-rookie running back Alvin Kamara and how that helped Drew Brees and the entire offense. Head coach Bill Belichick also recognizes that the running back position is now undervalued.