Rex Burkhead is newest addition to Patriots' backfield

The New England Patriots signed running back Rex Burkhead, formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals.

What It Means:

On paper, Burkhead figures to be another pass-catching mismatch out of New England's backfield, a la James White and Dion Lewis. However, he's known for his standout play on special teams and flashed his chops as a runner with 119 yards on 27 carries in a Week 17 spot start last season for the Bengals. Expect Burkhead to be a popular sleeper pick in 2017 fantasy drafts.

60 running backs had at least 70 carries last year, and among them Burkhead's 0.15 Rushing Net Expected Points per carry was third-best. Only LeSean McCoy and Mike Gillislee bested it.