Howe: What Can Steven Jackson Bring To Patriots?
BOSTON (CBS) -- The Patriots reportedly signed running back Steven Jackson on Monday, giving them a little more depth in their offensive backfield as the regular season comes to a close.
The Boston Herald's Jeff Howe joined 98.5 The Sports Hub's Toucher & Rich on Tuesday to discuss the addition of Jackson, and though the back is now 32 years old and was out of the game all season, Howe thinks he could provide a spark for a unit that needs a healthy body.
"He's clearly on the final legs of his career. You can't imagine he's going to give you more than 3.5-4.5 yards per carry. But with the depth really being tested in the offensive backfield he's a guy who can give you a spark for three to five games, and that's really all they need him for," said Howe.
Jackson's addition will allow Brandon Bolden to return his focus to special teams, where he has thrived this season.
"You take a little stress off Brandon Bolden, who wasn't used on special teams on Sunday and is their second or third best special teamer," said Howe. "You want to be able to spread the depth around… [Jackson] is a guy who can come in and help, and someone who is probably smart enough to come in and pick up the pass protection responsibilities he'll need to take on."
Howe believes the Patriots will hang on to Joey Iosefa, who would be open to other teams if the Patriots sent him back to the practice squad. Iosefa was impressive Sunday against the Titans, rushing for 51 yards on 14 carries, and Howe thinks the Pats will go with four running backs the rest of the way in Jackson, Bolden, Iosefa and James White.
They also discussed the injury to Danny Amendola, who left Sunday's game after re-aggravating a knee sprain he's been dealing with. Howe said he wouldn't be surprised if Amendola is back out there on Sunday, but the Patriots would be better off resting him until the postseason. Listen to the full segment below:
