Top 25 NFL free agents for 2018

16. Dion Lewis,RB, New England Patriots

Through the weekly, typically game plan specific, fluctuation of the Patriots’ running back rotation, injuries have allowed Lewis to emerge late this season. He scored at least one touchdown (five total-three rushing, two receiving) in each of the final three regular season games, with 50 carries for 222 yards and 11 catches for 64 yards in Week 16 and Week 17 combined.

Even with James White and Rex Burkhead likely back for the playoffs, as of this writing, Lewis could still have moments to shine when the games matter most. He had double-digit carries in 10 of the final 11 regular season games this year, with double-digit touches in all 11 of those contests. It has not mattered who else was available since mid-October-Lewis has maintained a significant role in New England’s offense.

Lewis is not a workhorse back by the definition we may still think of, at 5-foot-8 and 195 pounds, and his injury history (fractured fibula, torn ACL) could be a concern for teams as he hits the open market at 27 years old. It’s also worth wondering if his success in New England can be replicated somewhere else, but in this day and age Lewis’ versatility as a runner and receiver has a place of value in any offensive system.

Lewis could easily be seen as a disposable part by the Patriots, especially if a pretty thin crop of free agent running backs drives his market value up. But multiple teams should be ready with a multi-year deal to offer him.