Coming into the 2017 season, the New England Patriots had a lot of talent in their backfield. After the decision was made not to bring LeGarrette Blount back, the Patriots moved forward with a Dion Lewis, James White, and a few new acquisitions.
One of those acquisitions was Mike Gillislee. As the backup to LeSean McCoy on the Buffalo Bills, Gillislee had a great season in 2016. Last season, Gillislee totaled 577 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns. As a backup, that production was excellent from Gillislee, and it was one of the reasons why the Patriots signed him as a restricted free agent.