Patriots Prevented From Selecting High-Profile RB By Lions

The New England Patriots had a chance to get a high-profile RB in the 2024 NFL Draft, but the Detroit Lions were really fast. Bill Belichick had his eyes on Alabama Jahmyr Gibbs, per Albert Breer.

The Lions contacted the Arizona Cardinals to move in the draft and pick Gibbs.

“The Cardinals gave Holmes the shot to pick up a high second, slide back six spots and, fingers crossed, still land Gibbs, by staying in front of two teams the Lions heard liked him, in the Patriots (at 14) and the Jets (at 15).”

The Patriots traded from 14 to 17 and selected Oregon cornerback Christian Gonzales. It’s a good pick for the team, but Gibbs would have been a very special player.

Patriots wanted the high-profile RB for a reason

Doug Farrar from USA Today compared Gibbs to All-Pro Alvin Kamara, calling him “the next step in the progression” of Kamara’s “lightning/satellite back” role with the New Orleans Saints.

Jahmyr Gibbs Texas route pic.twitter.com/7Dznpu5Nnt

— Tyler Browning (@DiabeticTyler) January 5, 2023

In his two years with the Crimson Tide, Gibbs had 79 receptions. He is efficient in running routes like a wide receiver. The talented player would’ve been a nice boost to the Patriots’ passing game. Experts compare him to James White and his performance on the field.

The Lions select RB Jahmyr Gibbs at No. 12 overall ?

Gibbs had five touchdowns of 20+ yards in 2022 with Alabama ⭐️#OnePride | #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/8oMmfGc82A

— bet365 US (@bet365_us) April 28, 2023

Rhamondre Stevenson was efficient with the Patriots last season, but he is more efficient as a power runner between tackles. Gibbs would’ve given the Patriots good speed. Everything points to the fact that Gibbs is an ideal option for the team. He and Stevenson would’ve been lethal in 2023.

Belichick has Stevenson and James Robinson in this unit. Damien Harris was a key member for the Patriots, but he left the team in free agency. Belichick can always add another back and maybe he will check the open market and get players who can fit in his game plan.

Karem Hunt is another great option for the Patriots. He is versatile and we all know that Belichick likes versatile players. The best part? The Patriots can afford him. Let’s see what happens in a few weeks.