Patriots host four running backs for free agent workouts

Author Alex Barth

September 28th, 2021 6:00 PM

In the wake of James White’s injury on Sunday, the Patriots quickly find themselves thin at the running back position. That reality was reflected in their free agent workout list on Tuesday, which included four running backs.

Most of the backs the Patriots worked out are prototype passing backs, indicating the team has a certain fit in mind. In addition, the team also hosted a wide receiver and two defensive backs.

Here’s a run-through of the players the Patriots hosted on Tuesday…

• RB Ito Smith

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  Arguably the most accomplished player on this list, Smith had almost 500 all-purpose yards for the Falcons as a rookie in 2018. He didn't see as much volume the following two seasons, and was released last spring. He split his time in camp with year with the Cardinals and Vikings.

• RB Ryquell Armstead

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  As a rookie in 2019, Armstead played offensive depth and special teams roles for the Jaguars, before missing all of last season due to respiratory issues caused by COVID-19. He wasn't with a team in training camp this summer.

• RB Dontrell Hilliard

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  Hilliard has mainly been a special teams player in stops with the Browns and Texans. He was released by Houston back in August after initially being placed on injured reserve.
• RB Artavis Pierce

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  Pierce played in five games for the Bears in his rookie season, recording 34 yards and a touchdown on six carries. He was originally signed to Chicago's practice squad to start the season, but then released shortly after.

• WR Anthony Johnson

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  Since entering the league as a UDFA in 2019, Johnson has spent time on the practice squad with the Buccaneers, Chargers, and most recently the Steelers, all on the practice squad. The 6-foot-2, 210 pound receiver has yet to play in an NFL game.

• CB Stephen Denmark

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  A cornerback who originally began his college career as a wide receiver, Denmark has spent time on the practice squads of the Bears, Browns, Steelers, and Packers. He was released by Green Bay during final roster cuts earlier this month.
• CB DJ Daniel

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  A rookie UDFA, Daniel signed with the Jaguars after the draft in May after a strong performance at the Senior Bowl. He was released by the team in mid-August.

MORE: Eight free agent running backs the Patriots could target

Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].

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Author Alex Barth

Category:

• Patriots
• News
• Sports
• The Sports Hub

Tags:

Ito Smith,james white,New England Patriots,NFL,patriots