Veteran running back Lamar Miller agreeing to a one-year deal with the Patriots on Monday was rather interesting, more specifically the timing.
Miller missed all of last season with a torn ACL, but has been posting videos to social media that seemingly show he's healthy and ready for action.
So, why did the Patriots wait until now to sign him?
Part of it was likely Brandon Bolden opting out of the 2020 season, but what about Sony Michel?
Could this be a sign perhaps the running back, who is currently on PUP following offseason foot surgery, might not be ready, or at least be full-go for the start of the regular season?
Prior to the Miller deal, the Patriots had Michel, Rex Burkhead, James White, Damien Harris and J.J. Taylor at the running back position, which seemed fine going into the season. But, if Michel is in fact not ready to start the year then another player would be necessary, which could be why Miller entered the picture.
Now, there's no guarantee the 29-year-old will be 100 percent come the start of the season following his injury last year, but when healthy he has some talent and seems to fit what the Patriots value most in their running backs -- versatility.
Miller, who made the Pro Bowl in 2018, has two, 1,000-yard rushing seasons and has also shown the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. He has had at least 25 receptions in every season since his rookie year, including a career-high 47 in 2015.
While this appeared to be a low-risk, high-reward signing, it could also be viewed as a sign Michel might not be ready to start the season.
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