There’s an interesting story behind Patriot James White’s nickname

James “Sweet Feet” White didn’t always go by that name.

As reported by Mike Reiss of ESPN, the legend of “Sweet Feet” goes all the way back to James White’s days as a star running back at St. Thomas Aquinas high school in Florida.

James was tasked with coming up with a unique story for his high school’s Homecoming pep rally and he told the fictitious tale of his great, great-grandfather killing a cobra that was causing havoc on campus (a cobra was the opposing team’s mascot that weekend). “Sweet Feet White” was the only person who had feet quick enough to kill the Cobra before being hurt. A few people started calling James by the nickname, and then it took hold from there.

James’ nickname certainly held true during Super Bowl LI, when he caught 14 passes for 110 yards and one touchdown to go along with six rushes for 29 yards and two touchdowns. If anyone else was more deserving of MVP honors, it was James White. Although it’s tough to top Tom Brady’s historic comeback performance.

James is poised for another successful year in the backfield with Tom Brady at the helm of the Patriots offense. We’ll see if James can be just as productive without LeGarrette Blount taking the majority of the carries up the middle. It may be tough for White to increase his carries and remain the quick and nimble pass catcher he’s become.

The crazy thing is, I’m not sure James White could be as successful on any other team. The New England Patriots have a way of turning undervalued or lesser known players into integral parts of their system. It’s amazing how they see unique skills that are often overlooked by other coaches and teams. That might be why Bill Belichick is a five time Super Bowl-winning coach.

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Of course, it sure doesn’t hurt to have the best quarterback of all time throwing you the ball either.