While some observers will look at Burkhead's stat line (1,181 yards from scrimmage over five pro seasons, including 264 rushing yards and 254 receiving yards in 10 games last season, his first with the Patriots) and question whether he is really a marquee player, it doesn't take long to look at the tape and see how he can impact the game as a runner-receiver out of the backfield. In his injury-shortened 2017 campaign, Burkhead averaged 5.5 yards per touch and put the ball in the paint eight times. He is an exceptional route-runner with the speed and quickness to separate from defenders as a receiver, yet he is also a dynamic runner with enough physicality and toughness to pick up the hard yards between the tackles.