Earlier today, it was reported that the Patriots were considering signing former Dolphins fullback Lousaka Polite. Richard Hill discussed the potential signing earlier today.
Now, the Patriots have made the move official, announcing the signing of the eight year veteran to an undisclosed contract just a few minutes ago.
Polite, 30, spent the first four years of his career with Dallas and Chicago, before spending the past three years with the Miami Dolphins, where he served as their primary lead blocking fullback and short yardage back. He was a victim of final roster cut-downs for Miami this year in training camp, getting released in favor of the younger and more versatile Charles Clay.
Interestingly, Polite will be the first fullback on the Patriots' 53 man roster since Heath Evans in 2008. He could also be considered the first "true" fullback on the team since Fred McCrary in 2003 (Patrick Pass and Evans were hybrid types).Growing up, fullback was one of my primary positions when I played football, so I will always have a soft spot for the big guys at a position that is becoming more and more obsolete in today's pass happy NFL.
Polite should be a welcomed addition as a short yardage back, where he has become notorious for his ability to convert 3rd and one and 4th and one attempts. In addition, while his run blocking can be inconsistent at times, the Patriots likely intend to use him some in that role, as the player the Patriots have primary used as their blocking fullback, guard Donald Thomas, will likely be forced into the starting lineup with the injury to starting left guard Logan Mankins.