BREAKING: Patriots Show Interest in Star Tennessee Running Back at Pro Day

The New England Patriots are doing their homework on one of the most talented running backs in this year’s NFL Draft class. The team reportedly met with Tennessee standout running back Jaylen Wright during the Volunteers’ Pro Day, signaling potential interest in adding him to their backfield.

Wright, who declared for the draft after an impressive junior season, has been rising up draft boards due to his combination of speed, vision, and versatility. At 5-foot-11 and 210 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for an NFL running back and has showcased his ability to be a three-down player. His breakaway speed and quick-cutting ability make him a dangerous weapon both in the running game and as a receiver out of the backfield.

During his final season at Tennessee, Wright rushed for over 1,000 yards while averaging more than 7.0 yards per carry, demonstrating his explosiveness and efficiency. He also contributed in the passing game, proving that he can be a reliable option in modern NFL offenses that rely heavily on versatile running backs. His ability to make defenders miss in open space and break long runs has made him an attractive prospect for teams in need of a playmaker.

The Patriots’ interest in Wright is notable, as they are looking to bolster their offensive firepower under new head coach Jerod Mayo. The team has relied heavily on running back Rhamondre Stevenson in recent years, but with depth concerns in the backfield, adding a dynamic playmaker like Wright could be a smart move. New England is expected to focus on upgrading its offense in the draft, and Wright could be a valuable addition, whether as a change-of-pace back or a potential future lead back.

New England has historically valued versatile running backs, and Wright fits the mold of players who have thrived in their system. While Stevenson is a powerful runner capable of handling early-down work, Wright could complement him as a home-run threat, similar to how the team has used backs like James White and Shane Vereen in the past. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing game aligns with the Patriots’ offensive philosophy.

Wright’s Pro Day performance only helped his stock, as he displayed his speed and agility in front of scouts from multiple NFL teams. He ran routes cleanly, showed good hands in passing drills, and demonstrated explosiveness in agility tests. While he already impressed at the NFL Combine, his Pro Day gave teams a closer look at his skill set in a more controlled environment.

The Patriots’ meeting with Wright suggests that he is firmly on their radar as they prepare for the draft. While running back may not be their top priority, adding a player of Wright’s caliber could give their offense a much-needed spark. With several picks at their disposal, New England will have the opportunity to target playmakers who can contribute immediately, and Wright could be one of those key additions.