New England Patriots add Lamar Miller to crowded backfield

The New England Patriots have signed running back Lamar Miller to a one-year deal, providing insurance if Sony Michel isn't ready to go in Week 1. Miller, 29, made the 2018 Pro Bowl with Houston after rushing for 973 yards and five touchdowns while also catching 25 passes for 163 yards and a score. He sat out last season to recover from a torn ACL.

Michel rushed for 912 yards and seven touchdowns last season but averaged just 3.7 yards per carry. He remains on the PUP list as he recovers from offseason foot surgery.

With Brandon Bolden opting out, Miller joins a backfield that includes Michel, James White, Rex Burkhead and Damien Harris. Over seven seasons with Miami and Houston, Miller rushed for 5,864 yards and 32 TDs while averaging 4.3 yards a carry. He also caught 209 balls for 1,565 yards and eight scores.

Each year from 2016 through 2018, Miller racked up at least 210 carries.

With Cam Newton potentially replacing Tom Brady, New England is 20-1 to win the Super Bowl at William Hill. For Week 1, the Patriots are laying a full touchdown to visiting Miami.

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