Skip to main content
Come Fan with UsMonday, June 29, 2026

Patriots sign Jeff Demps to boost return game

Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images
Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images
Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images
Getty Images

Jeff Demps got his wish.

After opting out of the 2012 NFL Draft to prepare for the 2012 London Olympic Games, the former Florida running back has found a home in the NFL to pursue a career in New England.

Demps, a silver-medalist sprinter in the 2012 Olympics, was likely brought in to boost a Patriots' return game that has stagnated in recent years as Brandon Tate faded. Demps obviously has the speed to fill the role, but it's still unclear just how effective he'll be.

While at Florida, Demps returned two punts and 20 kickoffs. He managed to collect over 500 return yards in his last two seasons as a Gator, but only found the endzone once in his career.

Demps isn’t going to be a surefire, lights-out returner, but on a low-risk deal, the Patriots could have found an impact player at a position of need. And there shouldn’t be a huge transition to the kick returner position.

Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenchesSB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenches
Mocking the Draft

This player should be a plug-and-play replacement for Mekhi Becton right off the bat.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31
Mocking the Draft

This guy’s got talent, plus playing with Patrick Mahomes automatically elevates his potential.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30
Mocking the Draft

He’s a bit of a liability in the run game, but his potential in the pass game was enough for Buffalo Rumblings.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pickSB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pick
Mocking the Draft

This pick could help the Commanders build on last year’s excellent season.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan HutchinsonSB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan Hutchinson
Mocking the Draft

It’s a high-potential pick for a Detroit defense that needs a solid pass rusher.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26
Mocking the Draft

This rookie would be a great complement to Jared Verse and Byron Young.

By Michael Peterson