ESPN reveals Patriots’ most improved position in 2026 offseason

ESPN’s early power rankings recently listed fullback as the most improved position for the New England Patriots this offseason.

The team signed veteran Reggie Gilliam to a three-year, $10.8 million deal in free agency. Gilliam was a key contributor to the Buffalo Bills’ top-ranked rushing attack last season, and he’ll now bring that elite blocking to New England.

Along with Gilliam, the Patriots also have Brock Lampe and Jack Westover on their roster. The fullback position is stronger than it’s been in years.

ESPN wrote:

“Signing seven-year veteran Reggie Gilliam to a three-year, $10.8 million deal was a decisive move early in free agency to add more toughness in the running game. Despite the fullback position becoming less prominent across the NFL in recent years, coordinator Josh McDaniels’ offense has traditionally used it to help dictate matchups.”

Historically, fullback has been a hallmark position for the Patriots. Perhaps the best and closest example of this would be three-time Super Bowl champion and Patriots All-Dynasty Team member James Develin.

With Gilliam on the roster, the Patriots now have a traditional fullback in the offensive backfield who helped spring Bills star running back James Cook for 1,621 rushing yards last season. His mere presence should create more openings for Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson to break free.

Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: ESPN reveals Patriots’ most improved position in 2026 offseason