Using the New England Patriots' greatest position of needs as a guide, we're writing a series leading into the NFL draft that highlights three players at each spot who could fit the team's profile in the third-round-and-beyond range. Today, we'll look at running backs.
James Conner (Pittsburgh) -- The 6-foot-1 1/2, 233-pound Conner has off-the-charts intangibles and enters the draft with a story similar to 2011 Patriots fifth-round pick Marcus Cannon; in November 2015, Conner was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. He returned to start every game in 2016, as it was clear that he was still working his way back to his previous form. In his career, Conner set a conference record for rushing touchdowns (52) while receiving the Disney Sports Spirit Award as college football's most inspirational figure. He is a two-time captain, a power rusher, and also showed he can catch the football when it is thrown his way (30 career receptions).
D'Onta Foreman (Texas) -- Considered an athletic rusher despite his size (6-0, 233 pounds), Foreman averaged 184.4 rushing yards per game in 2016 and totaled 15 touchdowns. After production like that, it's no wonder that he declared for the NFL draft after his junior season, making him a 21-year-old rookie this season. One of the knocks on Foreman is ball security (nine fumbles), so teams will likely ask, "Is that something that he can correct with our coaching?" From a pure traits perspective, Foreman is a good example of what makes this running back class deep, as he could be available in the third round.
Samaje Perine (Oklahoma) -- Highlighted by ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay at the Patriots' draft preview event earlier in April, the 5-10 5/8, 233-pound Perine showed his strength at the combine by totaling 30 repetitions on the bench press, which was the most of any player at the position. A team captain, Perine set the school record for rushing yards (4,122) and also added 40 receptions, showing he can be a factor in the passing game as well. He is one of several power running backs in this year's class and might not make it to the third round, although the strength of this year's class could push him down into that range. He is widely viewed as a high-intangibles prospect.