AFC East best teams by position
By Brian Miller
RUNNING BACK
Buffalo Bills
Aug 14, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy (25) runs with the ball as Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kyle Love (61) pursues during the first quarter at a preseason NFL football game at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
The addition of LeSean McCoy gives the Bills a huge weapon out of the back-field. McCoy has consistently been one of the best pass catchers out of the back-field in the last few years and this year appears to be no different. McCoy suffered a slight injury in camp this year but is expected to fully be recovered by the start of the season. McCoy alone however is not the reason for the Bills top ranking. Fred Jackson and Bryce Brown give the Bills adequate depth and a mix of power and speed as well. There is little doubt that the Bills will improve on an already solid running back group.
Miami Dolphins
Oct 19, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller (26) during their game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Last season Lamar Miller rushed for over 1,000 yards for the first time in his career and he has looked in mid-season form already this camp. Miller is more decisive in his running thus far and is working diligently on improving his pass catching abilities. Blocking has been an issue for Miller as well but he appears to be improving in that area as well. With the new offensive weapons the Dolphins have and Miller’s improvement in the passing game, the Dolphins could be relying on Miller a lot more. In addition to Miller the Dolphins have a solid competition between rookie Jay Ajayi, second year runner Damien Williams, and LaMichael James.
Jets and Patriots
The Patriots tend to get the most of running backs that are not elite or even top tiered at the position. They will once again platoon players to off-set their high-octane passing game. Make no mistake their running game will still be good but they are not quite at the same level as the Dolphins and Bills. The Jets have been inconsistent at the position for a few years and the addition of Chris Johnson last year didn’t change that. This year they will hope for production from Zac Stacy and Daryl Richardson who is entering his 3rd NFL season.