It’s easy to forget that the New England Patriots were the first team to use Cordarelle Patterson as a running back in 2018. Patterson had an extremely impressive start to 2021 and took the league by surprise when the Atlanta Falcons unveiled him as a do-everything threat. His production made him into a fantasy football monster — at least for the first 13 weeks.
But perhaps the Falcons wouldn’t have considered using him in the ways that they did if not for the reps Patterson got at running back with New England. And now, something similar is happening with Patriots do-everything threat Ty Montgomery, who played multiple different positions with the Saints, Jets, Ravens and Packers. The versatile weapon is beginning to clear a path to make New England’s deep roster as a skill player.
“Ty’s another player that had a real good offseason for us,” Bill Belichick said during a pre-practice press conference on Wednesday. “Again, this is a player that we’re getting to know, trying to get familiar with what his skill set is. He’s pretty versatile. Looks like he can do a lot. … He’s a smart kid, learns well. We’ll see how he does in the kicking game and some different roles offensively just go from there.”
Montgomery spent most of his time as a slot receiver during minicamp and OTAs, but is now spending most of his time as a running back during training camp. He reminded me, however, that he is still taking reps in the slot for New England.
With running back James White on the physically unable to perform list, the Patriots have looked to Montgomery to take a significant role as a pass-catching running back. He and Rhamondre Stevenson have split up reps in third-down situations. Quarterback Mac Jones has not been shy about targeting Montgomery, who has looked explosive in generating yards after the catch. He has also looked quick to hit holes as a ball-carrier, and — though it’s always hard to tell the yardage for carries when there is no tackling — Montgomery seems to be generating solid production as a runner.
How has it been acclimating to the new system?
“It’s good. Just clocking in the work every day,” Montgomery told Patriots Wire on Wednesday. “Trying to do whatever’s asked. I’m having a lot of fun doing it. I love playing ball.”
He added: “(I) love special teams.”
Clearly, Montgomery understands New England’s culture. He was a man of few words in our interview and didn’t seem interested in sharing much information about his usage or the possibility of him making the roster. He did, however, offer some information about how he decided to join the Patriots this offseason during free agency.
“Was just trying to find a good fit. Came here on a visit and talked with the coaches. It seemed like the right fit,” Montgomery said. “Spoke with a good number of coaches and I just knew this was where I want to be.”
On occasion, the Patriots will meet with a free agent and the relationship won’t meet expectations. But Montgomery seems to be delivering.
