Early 2021 NFL free agency rankings: George Kittle headlines top 70 players

54. James White, RB, New England Patriots

Some fans might be surprised to see White this far up the list. However, White is one of the best receiving backs in the NFL. With so many offenses transitioning to running back by committee game plans, White’s free agency stock is near an all-time high. So long as he remains consistent without Tom Brady, White should sign the largest contract of his career next offseason.

Over the past two years, White didn’t produce much in the running game. He only carried the ball 161 times for 688 yards and six touchdowns. Those are hardly impressive totals. White’s real contributions came in the passing game, where he regularly elevated Brady’s completion percentage and provided an easy outlet.

Between 2018 and 2019, White made 159 receptions for 1,396 yards and 12 touchdowns. That brings his totals from the last two seasons to 2,084 yards from scrimmage and 18 total touchdowns. Putting White at 54th is possibly a little extreme, but he could thrive in almost any team’s offense.

53. Dont’a Hightower, ILB, New England Patriots

Hightower joined the Patriots as a first-round pick in 2012. He made the Pro Bowl in 2016 and made his second career appearance this past season. A versatile linebacker capable of making plays all over the field, Hightower experienced a lot of success with New England. However, can he maintain his production outside of the team’s scheme?

New England’s linebackers have a history of leaving the team and struggling in their new homes. Perhaps that’ll motivate Hightower to reach an extension with the Patriots, but Bill Belichick’s team could also move on from the 30-year-old defender.