More and more NFL rookies are expected to contribute early in their careers. However, for them to make an impact they need to beat out a veteran player. We are going to analyze the situation of specific rookies and determine the likely hood of them winning a position battle.
Rookie Depth Chart Battles: Shane Vereen
Player: Shane Vereen
Team: New England Patroits
Position: Running Back
Competition: BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Danny Woodhead, Stevan Ridley, Kevin Faulk, Sammy Morris
Chance of winning the battle: 20 percent
Thoughts: The Patriots went into the 2011 NFL Draft with a lot of picks and they emerged with several talented players. However, I thought they used one to many picks at the running back position which wasn't a glaring need. They could have maybe added a top end running back but it appears they added players similar to those already on the roster.
Vereen is a smaller back that runs hard and possesses good quickness. He has the ability to create in space and contribute in the passing game. His kick/punt return skills will give him added value. However, his skills are very similar to those of Danny Woodhead. He might have more natural ability than Woodhead but it will be tough to steal snaps. Woodhead had 927 total yards with 6 touchdowns.
For a team that likes to throw the football as much as they run it, Vereen could find himself struggling to get playing time. Crowded backfields have a tendency to result in players getting cut and higher draft picks are not always guaranteed a roster spot.
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