The New England Patriots are not notorious for making splashes in the offseason, and they normally tend to sign undervalued veterans who project to be good scheme fits for the team. However, the Patriots may be looking at an anomaly late into the 2016 NFL offseason as they have reportedly shown interest in running back Arian Foster. The team should definitely sign Foster if they determine he is healthy, as he would be an upgrade for their running back corps in 2016.

Foster had spent his entire seven-year career with the Houston Texans prior to being released by the organization earlier this offseason. Foster was one of the Texans’ best players, running for 6,472 total yards and 54 touchdowns during his career, both franchise records.

However, over the past three seasons Foster has struggled with injuries and only played in 25 out of a possible 48 regular season games. In his final season, he played in only three games before rupturing his Achilles tendon. Prior to the injury, Foster had averaged only 2.6 yards per carry, which was by far the worst number of his career.

Still, Foster has some talent and would be a great fit in the Patriots’ organization. Although he is 30, the Patriots have taken some chances on aging running backs recently, like Steven Jackson, so adding Foster would seem to fit their team strategy. Also, with the Patriots, Foster would be a part of a “back by committee” approach where he would not have to carry the ball 20 times per game. This would limit his carries, keep him fresh for the postseason, and help prevent injuries.

In terms of his competition, Foster would be up against LeGarrette Blount and Donald Brown for a role as a between the tackles runner. Foster is more talented than both of them, so he would easily develop into the lead back for the team. He would be the first part of the rushing attack with Dion Lewis and James White being receiving backs, and Blount would be a short yardage/power run guy. This rotation would likely make Brown a cap casualty for the team, but it would be worth it to add Foster.

Adding Foster would be a high upside move for the Patriots. If he does not pan out or gets injured, the team would be set at the running back position anyway. If he does work out, then he upgrades the unit and makes it a really solid group. Bill Belichick should definitely talk more to Foster and try and sign him to a deal with minimal guarantees. That would be the best option for both sides.