The New England Patriots have one of the deepest offensive backfields in the NFL – one that consists of four roster locks in running backs James White, Rex Burkhead and Sony Michel, as well as fullback James Develin. Naturally, this does not leave a lot of room for other players, which is why New England has already released undrafted rookie Ralph Webb earlier today.
Now, another running back is gone: Mike Gillislee has been released, according to the Boston Herald’s Kevin Duffy.
The Patriots released RB Mike Gillislee, per source.
New England originally added Gillislee last offseason after signing the restricted free agent to a front-loaded two-year, $6.4 million offer sheet that the Bills did not match during the five-day window. The Patriots sent a fifth-round draft pick to their AFC East rivals and received Gillislee in return. But while he did find some success as a short-yardage running back, his first year with the team was a disappointment.
His second season did not start any better as Gillislee was unable to generate any momentum in the fight for a roster spot. Seeing him let go is therefore not at all surprising, and should help fellow running back Jeremy Hill’s chances of making the squad.