Jeff Demps Agrees To Deal With New England Patriots

November 5, 2011; Gainesville FL, USA; Florida Gators running back Jeff Demps (28) runs with the ball during the first quarter against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE

A handful of teams were interested in former Florida Gator return man and running back Jeff Demps when he announced that he would be pursuing a NFL career immediately after winning a silver medal as part of the USA men’s 4×100-meter relay team at the 2012 London Olympics. The New York Jets and Tampa Bay Buccaneers were some of the most seriously interested teams but neither one of them managed to sign the speedster.

However, Demps did find a team. He has agreed to sign with the New England Patriots per multiple sources.

Last season, Demps had 569 yards rushing and six touchdowns for the Gators. He finished his college career with 23 total touchdowns and over 2,400 rushing yards. He also adds a dynamic presence on special teams with his speed. Demps averaged an impressive 28.8 yards per return in his career.

Demps went undrafted in the 2012 NFL Draft because he had informed teams of his plans to pursue his track career over football.

He has always been a dynamic running back in the mold of Darren Sproles and an even better kick returner. Adding Demps will add another aspect to the Patriots attack.

Topics: Jeff Demps, New England Patriots

  • Billy B

    Great move by the Patriots. They need a kick and punt return guy who is a legitimate threat and not just out there to fair catch the ball. I just hope this doesn’t mean Ridley could be out long term but the Patriots needed another back in the backfield anyways. I wanted them to draft this kid when he came out of college but this works too.