Injuries have the rest of the NFL scrambling for healthy bodies – even at the usually deep running back position.
The New England Patriots could be on the hunt with Tuesday’s post from Adam Schefter that the news on TreVeyon Henderson’s injury is a high ankle sprain, meaning weeks off and a potential trip to injured reserve.
The Patriots currently have Rhamondre Stevenson and Corey Kiner (6 carries, 52 yards, 1 lost fumble on Sunday) on the active roster.
Lan Larison is the lone running back currently on the New England practice squad.
So, aside from the scrap heap types, the Patriots personnel brass might look to the trade market to bolster the depth, especially if Henderson has to go to IR.
Trade might be smartest route
Whoever New England brings, regardless of the route, they must be reliable enough on third down, both as a receiver and a pass protector.
Stevenson has been doing duty on all three downs, and the team has to adjust his work load.
Here are a handful of potential trade targets.
Blake Corum, Los Angeles Rams
This is the top shelf target, but with the Rams wobbling at 2-3, might they be looking for some help elsewhere?
Would New England ever consider a blockbuster type deal here, giving up a player the Rams could use – perhaps a depth cornerback – plus a pick for LA’s 1-B running back?
He’d be explosive, a trait New England is missing, but with a hefty price tag.
Tony Pollard, Tennessee
The 29-year-old continues to show life in his legs with the Titans with an ability to contribute in the passing game as well.
Sitting at 0-5 with a QB situation that can best be described as a mess, Tennessee has to be looking to the future.
They have a legitimate stop-gap type in Tyjae Spears making Pollard a prized target via trade.
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Kimani Vidal, Los Angeles Chargers
He’s either two or three on the depth chart for the winless Chargers, who have to be looking to shake things up.
He’s a shifty type, who could be just right in the mix, able to fit into a bit of a third-down role, even when Henderson returns.
Jaleel McLaughlin, Cleveland
The Browns are a little bit dinged up and feeling like a contender at 3-2. But this team is wed to Quinshon Judkins, making McLaughlin, the former Bronco, a solid target at a less expensive trade price.
