The New England Patriots lost one of the most surprising players in the NFL this season during their game against the Washington Redskins. Dion Lewis had emerged as the replacement for Shane Vereen and had played great, but will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL, according to Jim McBride of the Boston Globe.
Tough news out of Foxborough: #Patriots RB Dion Lewis out for the season with torn ACL per team source.
— Jim McBride (@globejimmcbride) November 9, 2015
The Patriots have other running backs on the roster, so losing Lewis might not be a major blow, especially if it's only for a few weeks. LeGarrette Blount is still the team's power back. Brandon Bolden subbed in for Lewis during the Redskins game and James White played when Lewis was out earlier this season. However If Lewis is out for several games, or worse the season, the Patriots might add someone to replace him on the active roster. With that in mind, here are five players the Patriots could sign to replace Dion Lewis.
5. Ray Rice
Every time an NFL team has needed an RB this season, Rice's name pops up. I'm not a big fan of his, because I think he's washed up as a running back. In his last season with the Ravens, he put up a meager 3.1 yards per carry. He's a 28-year-old RB who hasn't played recently, so there is cause for concern. However, don't be surprised if his name comes up, especially among fans.
4. Montee Ball
Ball didn't make the Broncos' roster, but still has some talent. He has limited upside in the passing game, but offers value as a workhorse type back. He's worth brining in for a workout, even if he isn't a perfect fit for New England.
3. Ben Tate
Tate hasn't played in an NFL game since last season, but he still has some talent. He did get a workout with the Chiefs when Charles went down, so he's at least on the minds of NFL teams. There is no harm in bringing him for a workout and seeing what he has left.
2. Bryce Brown
Brown is quick, shifty and worth a look. He was recently cut by the Buffalo Bills and had a workout with the Chiefs when Jamaal Charles went down. He has some potential, and is young enough to merit consideration beyond this season. He'd be a decent fit as a pass-catching replacement for Lewis.
1. Travaris Cadet
Cadet was cut by the Patriots when the team traded for LB Jon Bostic. Cadet only played in one game for New England, making one catch. However, he knows the offense and is the obvious addition if Lewis is out for an extended period of time. If the Patriots do sign someone, there isn't a better option for the team than Cadet.
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