Patriots Running Back Says He’s Returning In 2021 After COVID Opt-Out

The New England Patriots didn’t make the playoffs this season and winning games is not really a priority right now. They will play against the New York Jets, and this is the final game on their schedule. But, some players are already planning their 2021 season. Brandon Bolden is one of them. According to his most recent tweet, the Patriots running back is returning to the field in 2021.

Playing in 2021 is definitely part of Bolden’s plans. He is one of the eight Patriots players who opted out of 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Bolden took to his social media Tuesday to share his plans and announce his decision to return to the field.

“For everyone asking, yea I’ll be back,” he wrote. Well, he also used an expletive word to make himself clear.

Patriots running back is returning for the upcoming season

Bolden spent seven of his eight seasons in New England. The team signed him as an undrafted rookie in 2021. Bolden was a core special teamer and occasional offensive contributor. The running back scored career-high four touchdowns this past season.

Let’s not forget that Bolden is one of Bill Belichick’s favorites. The Patriots head coach admitted he made a huge mistake in 2018 by losing Bolden to the Miami Dolphins.

During his appearance on WEEIs “Ordway, Merloni & Fauria,” Belichick said he hadn’t spoken with most of the opt-outs. However, he does plan to do that in the next period. Linebacker Dont’a Hightower, safety Patrick Chung, offensive tackle Marcus Cannon, wide receiver Marqise Lee, fullback Danny Vitale and guard Najee Toran decided to opt out of 2020 due to health concerns.

NFL players who opted out of the season had the terms of their deals delayed by one year. In other words, all eight Patriots players are under contract for 2021. Of course, they will have to make a decision regarding their game. Will they play in 2021? Bolden is definitely playing.

The running back carries a $1.99 million salary-cap hit with $500,000 in dead money. Having Bolden back on the field is more than great. Patriots fans are super excited.