The New England Patriots have a very talented and versatile running back depth chart. James White and Dion Lewis are two of the best receiving backs in the NFL, while LeGarrette Blount is in the best season of his career. Fullback James Develin and core special teamer Brandon Bolden are also core members of the group.
Consequently, seeing the team waive rookie D.J. Foster yesterday to make room for defensive tackle Darius Kilgo was not that big a surprise. The main question regarding the transaction was whether or not Foster would be able to clear waivers to return to the Patriots’ practice squad.
According to Jeff Howe, he was:
D.J. Foster will re-sign with the Patriots practice squad, per source. He cleared waivers.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) November 29, 2016
Several teams showed interest in claiming Foster, but he expressed a desire to remain with the Patriots.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) November 29, 2016
This is certainly good news for New England as Foster has shown some potential as a receiving back and kick returner during training camp and the preseason. While he was unable to crack the game-day rotation, his talent was on display over the course of the summer and he has been able to lay a foundation upon which to build for the future.
The 23-year old now fills the final open spot on the Patriots’ practice squad, where he joins Tyler Gaffney as the running backs.