Running back Lamar Miller at the Patriots: What does that mean?

Veteran running back Lamar Miller agreed to a one-year contract with the Patriots on Monday was pretty interesting, timing specifically.

Miller missed all of last season with a torn ACL, but posted videos on social media that apparently show he’s healthy and ready for action.

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So why have the Patriots waited until now to sign him?

Part of that was probably Brandon Bolden opted out of the 2020 season, but what about Sony Michel?

Could this be a sign that the running back, who is currently in PUP after offseason foot surgery, might not be ready, or at least be in full swing for the start of the regular season?

Prior to the Miller deal, the Patriots had Michel, Rex Burkhead, James White, Damien Harris and JJ Taylor running back, which looked good at the start of the season. But, if Michel is in fact not ready to start the year then another player would be needed, which could be the reason why Miller came on the scene.

Now there is no guarantee that the 29-year-old will be 100% at the start of the season after his injury last year, but when he is in good health he is talented and seems to match what the Patriots love most about their running backs: versatility. .

Miller, who competed in the Pro Bowl in 2018, enjoyed two 1,000-yard running seasons and also showed his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. He’s had at least 25 receptions every season since his rookie year, including a career-high 47 in 2015.

While this seems like a low risk, high return signing, it could also be seen as a sign that Michel might not be ready to start the season.

Related: Patriots reportedly opened up again after TE Jordan Leggett doesn’t sign after all