The New England Patriots could have some vacancies at the running back spot that they need to fill this offseason. Dion Lewis is likely to leave in free agency, while Rex Burkhead is also set to hit the market.

According to Doug Kyed of NESN, Denver Broncos running back CJ Anderson could be a potential target the Patriots might pursue to replace Lewis. Kyed points out that the Patriots showed some interest in Anderson when he hit restricted free agency in 2016, and that interest could be rekindled if Anderson is cut this offseason by the Broncos.

Anderson has played his entire five-year NFL career with the Broncos. He made the Pro Bowl back in 2014 and helped them win the Super Bowl in 2015. He is coming off a career year with them in in 2017. He had a career-high 1,007 rushing yards on 245 carries with three touchdowns. But he is reportedly a likely candidate to be released by Denver as they aim to open up cap space for a run at quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Article Continues Below
More NFL News
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) is tackled by New York Jets running back Isaiah Davis (32) during a punt return during the first half at MetLife Stadium.
NFL rumors: Mike Florio tosses out ‘intriguing’ Tyreek Hill trade idea for BearsSteve Silverman ·
Giants coach Brian Daboll (center) with Purdue guard Marcus Mbow (left) and Ole Miss receiver Antwane Wells (right)
3 New York Giants hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowJaren Kawada ·
Sep 16, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Bryce Huff (0) against the Atlanta Falcons at Lincoln Financial Field. 49ers
Eagles legend Brandon Graham explains Bryce Huff flop after 49ers tradeChristopher Hennessy ·
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) runs to score a touchdown on a pass reception against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Jacksonville won 20-10.
Cowboys’ George Pickens claims he ‘forced’ Steelers tradeMalik Brown ·
image thumbnail
Packers’ Jordan Love weapon drops ‘obvious’ take on drop problemBenjamin Adducchio ·
Dallas Cowboys RB Jaydon Blue next to LB Jack Sanborn and a silhouette of an American football player with a big question mark emoji inside. There is also a logo for the Dallas Cowboys.
3 Dallas Cowboys hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowBen Strauss ·

Anderson would be an ideal complement in the Patriots backfield alongside James White and Mike Gillislee, neither of whom has much experience being a team’s primary back. Anderson could take over a majority of the workload while the two remain in their current roles.

However, the Patriots could face stiff competition for Anderson from the likes of the Miami Dolphins if he does hit the open market. Apart from potentially getting more money, Anderson could also have a more prominent role in another team’s offense. But at the very least, the Patriots should reach out to Anderson if he ever becomes available to see whether he’d be willing to come on board.