The New England Patriots are always looking for talent to add to their roster and are definitely an option for free agent running back Montee Ball. He is without question capable of making a difference if he finds the right fit and the Patriots could very well be the team that he needs to sign with to take the next step.
Ball was expected to break out with the Denver Broncos over the past couple of years, but health concerns and inconsistency ruined those chances. He was part of the cuts that were made ahead of the season and is now open to sign with whomever he'd like. There are plenty of teams that could use some running back depth around the NFL and one of them is the Patriots.
During the first two seasons of his career, Ball was only able to record 731 yards and five touchdowns on 175 carries. That type of production is never going to get the job done for a starting running back.
Bill Belichick has taken chances on talented players who haven't performed well in the early stages of their career before however. He also has a small need at running back with LeGarrette Blount suspended to start the season. Ball could head into New England and immediately give the Patriots an upgrade over what they currently have available until Blount returns to the field.
Whether or not Ball would want to sign on with New England is another question, as he wouldn't have a chance to be their long-term starter.
At just 24 years old, there is plenty of time for Ball to turn his career around and get it back on track. Signing with a team like the Patriots who are known for turning careers around and giving second chances seems like a great idea for the former Wisconsin Badgers' star running back. Ball certainly can't find a better fit than the Patriots, although he might be able to find a team that would give him more playing time.
If the Patriots do show interest in Ball, it wouldn't be surprising to see a deal happen fairly quickly. He is simply searching for a place to play and a get a new start to his career.
There is the chance that the Patriots don't show interest in signing him and that they are comfortable with the group of running backs that they currently have. While that is a possibility, Ball is a talented young player who has a couple years of experience, which is much better than many of the players that the Patriots have on board.
Both sides would benefit from signing a deal for the upcoming season and giving it a shot. Ball could very well earn a role with the Patriots that would satisfy him throughout the year. Blount is likely going to be the starter when he returns from suspension, but Ball could compete with him for some carries as his primary backup.
That being said, it will be interesting to see what ends up happening with Ball over the next couple weeks. He most certainly can find a new contract with a team, but he has to make sure they're the right fit.
Don't be surprised if the Patriots show some interest in Ball in the near future. Belichick is always searching to improve his roster and Ball could certainly do that. He has the potential to turn his career around in a hurry and be a very important piece for an offense and New England could offer him the best chance to do that.
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