When Reggie Gilliam signed his three-year, $10.8 million contract this offseason with the Patriots, the expectation was that he would help out in the running game as the team’s fullback.
While he has done a serviceable job through two games at fullback, even recording a reception for four yards during the Pittsburgh game, he has also earned praise from his teammates and coach Jeremy Springer on the special teams unit.
“From the second we got Reggie, I was probably the happiest guy in the room,” said Springer. “He’s done it throughout his career. He’s a true pro… He’s another coach on the field.”
Special Teams Veteran Leader
The quickest way to more playing time in the NFL is by making contributions on special teams, and Gilliam, through his years of experience in the NFL, has passed his knowledge on to Coach Springer’s younger special teams players.
Traditional fullbacks are rare nowadays. And the fullbacks who are rostered can be limited offensively due to the game flow. Gilliam’s versatility on special teams and offense makes him an irreplaceable asset. No matter when he enters the game, he acts as an extension of the coaching staff.
Gilliam’s Week 3 Test
When New England kicks off on Sunday against the Jaguars, field-position battles will be critical. This makes special teams execution a high priority.
If Gilliam can go — he suffered a knee injury in the Patriots’ victory over the Steelers — he will play a major role against Jacksonville’s explosive return units, proving that his offseason signing delivered far more value than just offensive backfield snaps.
While Reggie Gilliam was brought in to help bolster the Patriots’ backfield, his veteran experience on special teams is what has been standing out to Coach Springer. On Sunday, his impact may not show up in the box score, but inside the walls of One Patriot Place, Gilliam’s leadership is already proving invaluable.
