Patriots’ Alabama Rookie Makes His Move After Sudden Running Back Shakeup

The New England Patriots saw their running back situation change quickly just before opening the preseason against the Indianapolis Colts.

Terrell Jennings was placed on injured reserve, ending his season, while the Patriots brought back JaMycal Hasty. The moves followed New England’s signing of Hassan Haskins just a day earlier, creating an increasingly crowded competition behind Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson.

That gave rookie Jam Miller an opportunity, and he took advantage of it.

The seventh-round pick started Thursday night and led the Patriots with 14 carries for 55 yards during the 13-13 draw. Miller also delivered New England’s longest rushing play of the game, a 15-yard run, while successfully converting both of his fourth-down rushing attempts.

ESPN labeled Miller the “rookie headliner” from New England’s preseason opener, an encouraging development for a player whose path to the roster became more intriguing after the latest changes at running back.

Miller Takes Advantage of His Opportunity

Miller did not need to score a touchdown or produce eye-popping numbers to make an impression on head coach Mike Vrabel. His physical running style stood out.

“It was good to see Jam come out and have some nice runs,” Vrabel said after the game. He praised Miller for running with his pads low and delivering several physical carries.

Vrabel also emphasized that preseason games are important for determining which players can contribute to the team and which ones may not make the cut.

That evaluation is particularly important at running back following Jennings’ injury.

Jennings had appeared to be in a strong position for the No. 3 running back job after receiving significant work in that role following his return from the non-football injury list. His move to injured reserve suddenly created an opening, and Miller was in a position to make a case for himself.

At 5-foot-10 and 209 pounds, Miller brings many of the physical qualities he displayed against Indianapolis. New England selected him 245th overall out of Alabama after he totaled 1,596 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns over 51 games with the Crimson Tide.

The Patriots also pointed to Miller’s 4.42-second speed and previous experience on special teams as traits that could help him compete for a roster spot.

Miller and Larison Could Be Competing for RB3

While Miller made the more convincing impression as a traditional runner, Lan Larison showed why he remains part of the competition.

Larison played 40 snaps, catching six passes for 38 yards while also handling kickoff-return duties. His rushing production was limited, however, as he managed only one yard on seven carries. Miller, meanwhile, averaged 3.9 yards per attempt.

The competition could ultimately depend on what New England wants from its third running back. Miller offers a more traditional early-down rushing option, while Larison’s ability as a receiver and returner could provide additional value.

The Patriots also have veteran competition to consider.

New England recently signed Haskins and brought Hasty back following Jennings’ placement on injured reserve. Vrabel acknowledged that it was still too early to evaluate the two additions, particularly given how little time they had to prepare for the Colts.

That could give Miller another opportunity to separate himself.

Stevenson and Henderson appear firmly established at the top of the depth chart, leaving the remaining roster spot to be determined by factors such as special teams contributions, receiving ability and effectiveness with limited rushing opportunities.

Miller received 14 carries in his preseason debut.

He made those opportunities count and gave the Patriots plenty to consider moving forward.