The New England Patriots have gone through much change in the backfield this NFL offseason that saw the departure of two contributors in LeGarrette Blount and Dion Lewis in free agency.

It did see the return of running back Rex Burkhead on a multi-year deal to stay in the mix as a significant factor in the offensive game plan. However, the Patriots may have to move a bit precautiously with Burkhead as Jeff Howe of The Athletic is reporting that he is dealing with a minor knee injury.

This is a bit of a setback as the Patriots are hoping that the 28-year-old will be a big piece to the puzzle in the backfield. The team may operate more carefully over the next few weeks to avoid any further damage to his knee to keep him on the field for the 2018 campaign.

In his first season in New England, he proved to be a versatile option in the backfield as both a runner and receiver. In 10 games played, he rushed for 264 yards with five touchdowns along with hauling in 30 catches on 36 targets for 254 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Burkhead was a valuable option in a secondary role in the Patriots’ backfield approach that is more of a running back by committee game plan.

This will likely remain the case for next season as he will vie for playing time in a crowded backfield with the additions of Jeremy Hill, and rookie Sony Michel, who is dealing with some knee issues. The Patriots already have a few viable options in James White, Brandon Bolden, and Mike Gillislee. Although Burkhead may not be expressing much concern with the situation, it is something that they will continue to monitor in the next couple of weeks heading into the regular season.