Title: Patriots Bolster Roster with Signing of Free Agent Running Back
Subtitle: C.J. Marable and Micah Vanterpool join the team as Olakunle Fatukasi and Jourdan Heilig are released
August 14, 2021
In a flurry of roster moves on Saturday, the New England Patriots solidified their squad with the signing of free agent running back C.J. Marable. Additionally, offensive lineman Micah Vanterpool was brought in to bolster the team’s struggling offensive line. These acquisitions come as the Patriots released linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi and rookie free agent safety Jourdan Heilig.
Marable, who played in the United States Football League (USFL) for the Birmingham Stallions over the past two seasons, proved to be a valuable asset in their back-to-back championship wins. Although he had a short stint with the Chicago Bears earlier this year, Marable never saw action in any NFL game. However, his versatility as a dual-threat running back during his collegiate years at Coastal Carolina from 2018 to 2020 caught the attention of the Patriots’ scouts.
With depth being a concern in the offensive line, Micah Vanterpool’s arrival brings much-needed support to the struggling group. The offensive line had a lackluster performance in the team’s preseason opener against the Houston Texans last Thursday, prompting the Patriots to seek reinforcements. Vanterpool’s experience and skills are expected to contribute greatly to the team’s performance moving forward.
Speculation surrounding the Patriots’ pursuit of veteran running backs Dalvin Cook and Ezekiel Elliott have been circulating in recent weeks. In July, Elliott reportedly visited the Patriots, and talks were said to have gone “really well.” However, it seems that the Patriots have turned their attention to other options, including the newly signed Marable. Elliott is reported to be seeking a contract that exceeds current market expectations, making it difficult for a deal to be reached at this time.
The Patriots will be looking to build momentum in their upcoming preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on Saturday, August 19, at Lambeau Field. This matchup will give coaches and fans alike the opportunity to assess the team’s new acquisitions and evaluate their progress as they prepare for the upcoming regular season.
As the Patriots continue to fine-tune their roster ahead of the 2021 campaign, fans are eager to see how the team’s new signings will mesh with the existing players. The additions of Marable and Vanterpool bring renewed excitement and hope for a successful season for the New England Patriots.