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ESPN reveals Patriots' most improved position in 2026 offseason
TL;DR
ESPN has identified the fullback position as the most improved for the New England Patriots in the 2026 offseason. The team signed veteran Reggie Gilliam to enhance their rushing attack.
Key points
- ESPN ranks fullback as most improved position for Patriots
- Reggie Gilliam signed for three years at $10.8 million
- Gilliam was key to Buffalo Bills' rushing attack
- Patriots' fullback position is stronger than in previous years
New England PatriotsBuffalo Bills
ESPN's early power rankings recently listed fullback as the most improved position for the New England Patriots this offseason.
The team signed veteran Reggie Gilliam to a three-year, $10.8 million deal in free agency. Gilliam was a key contributor to the Buffalo Bills' top-ranked rushing attack last season, and he'll now bring that elite blocking to New England.
Along with Gilliam, the Patriots also have Brock Lampe and Jack Westover on their roster. The fullback position is stronger than it's been in years.
ESPN wrote:
"Signing seven-year veteranĀ Reggie GilliamĀ to a three-year, $10.8 million deal was a decisive move early in free agency to add more toughness in the running game. Despite the fullback position becoming less prominent across the NFL in recent years, coordinator Josh McDaniels' offense has traditionally used it to help dictate matchups."
Historically, fullback has been a hallmark position for the Patriots. Perhaps the best and closest example of this would be three-time Super Bowl champion and Patriots All-Dynasty Team member James Develin.
With Gilliam on the roster, the Patriots now have a traditional fullback in the offensive backfield who helped spring Bills star running back James Cook for 1,621 rushing yards last season. His mere presence should create more openings for and to break free.
Q&A
What improvements have the New England Patriots made to their fullback position in 2026?
The Patriots signed veteran Reggie Gilliam to a three-year, $10.8 million deal, significantly strengthening their fullback position.
Who is Reggie Gilliam and why is he important for the Patriots?
Reggie Gilliam is a veteran fullback who contributed to the Buffalo Bills' top-ranked rushing attack last season, bringing elite blocking skills to the Patriots.
How does the Patriots' fullback position compare to previous seasons?
The fullback position is now stronger than it has been in years, thanks to the addition of Gilliam and other players like Brock Lampe and Jack Westover.
