Patriots Rumors: Antonio Gibson Was 'a Top Target' Entering 2024 NFL Free Agency | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors

The New England Patriots considered Antonio Gibson a "top target" before inking the veteran running back to a three-year, $11.3 million contract, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss.

Reiss cited Gibson's receiving ability as a selling point for New England. In four year with the Washington Commanders, he caught 172 passes for 1,283 yards and seven touchdowns.

"That highlights, in part, how the new regime was looking for more of a contrast between top running back Rhamondre Stevenson and his backup than they had last season with Ezekiel Elliott," Reiss said. "One NFL executive saw value in the signing as long as Gibson picks up the offensive system and shows the ability to pass protect — which can be challenging to project."

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"He is going to be able to run some real routes, this is a guy who played receiver at Memphis... I like the signing"<a href="">@PhilAPerry</a>, <a href="">@AlbertBreer</a> and <a href="">@tomecurran</a> react to the Patriots signing RB Antonio Gibson 👀 <a href="">

It's not as though the Patriots have used Rhamondre Stevenson solely as a running option to this point. His 421 receiving yards in 2022 are actually more than Gibson has posted across any season.

Based on Reiss' report, New England's new coaching staff could be looking to create more defined roles in the backfield.

Having a proven pass-catcher as the backup running back certainly presents a different dimension than Elliott did, and Gibson's presence should be help whichever rookie the franchise pins its hopes to in the NFL draft.

If Gibson fails to work out, the cost of moving on will be minimal for the Pats in 2025.