New England Patriots: 7-Round 2018 mock draft pre-Combine

As per usual, the New England Patriots used a lot of players at the running back position last season. Dion Lewis, James White, Rex Burkhead and Mike Gillislee all saw a lot of game action at certainly times during the year. Lewis ended up being the primary back down the stretch with White and Burkhead filling in certain situations.

Lewis will hit the open market as a free agent this offseason. I expect the Patriots to have interest in bringing him back, but Lewis will have a lot of suitors and New England is only going to spend so much on a running back. Him leaving this offseason is a real possibility.

If that happens, the Patriots could certainly attack the position in the draft. Royce Freeman is an interesting prospect who makes sense in this range. With a strong mix of power and quickness, Freeman is a real weapon with the ball in his hands. He is also a patient runner who shows high-level ball carrier vision, especially in a zone blocking scheme.

He has a balanced skill set and catches the ball well out of the backfield. The Patriots love versatility at the running back position and Freeman fits that bill well. If he can improve his pass protection skills, Freeman will be a true three down back at the next level.

There is a lot of natural ability and upside in this pick. Losing Lewis would hurt the New England Patriots, but adding Freeman could be a better long-term investment for the team.