In a move to enhance their running back depth, the New England Patriots recently acquired Corey Kiner from the Arizona Cardinals. This decision comes on the heels of head coach Mike Vrabel expressing concerns about the team's depth following their preseason finale. The Patriots had leaned heavily on backup players throughout the preseason, aiming to identify hidden talents and solidify their roster.
On August 29, the Patriots completed a trade for Kiner, sending a 2028 seventh-round pick to the Cardinals in exchange for the second-year running back. With the final roster cuts now behind them, Kiner joins a running back group that includes just two other players on the active roster. Despite his limited NFL experience, Kiner has shown potential as a physical runner who could contribute significantly to the Patriots' offense in the upcoming season.
Kiner's journey to the Patriots has been marked by noteworthy performances, even in limited opportunities. After entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2025, he spent time with the San Francisco 49ers and the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad before making his way to the Cardinals. In his four games with Arizona, Kiner recorded 12 carries for 58 yards and demonstrated his ability to absorb contact, particularly in a standout performance against the Atlanta Falcons where he showcased his strength and balance.
Standing at 5-foot-9 and weighing 209 pounds, Kiner's compact frame allows him to run with power, making him difficult to tackle. His ability to force missed tackles was evident last season, where he was credited with four missed tackles on just 12 carries. This skill set translated effectively from his college career at Cincinnati, where he amassed 1,153 rushing yards and four touchdowns in his senior season.
In the 2026 preseason, Kiner continued to impress, accumulating 39 carries for 180 yards and two touchdowns. His quick footwork and patience at the line of scrimmage have made him a promising option for the Patriots as they look to solidify their running game. As the team prepares for the regular season, Kiner's ability to navigate tight spaces and maintain forward momentum could prove invaluable.
Vrabel has expressed enthusiasm about Kiner's addition, noting that the coaching staff had previously targeted him for acquisition. This trade represents a strategic move by the Patriots, who recently traded wide receiver Kayshon Boutte to the Houston Texans, allowing them to address their depth issues at running back and safety. The Patriots' decision to acquire Kiner underscores their confidence in his potential to contribute to the team's success.
The Patriots have explored various options at running back during the preseason, evaluating players like Jam Miller, Hassan Haskins, JaMycal Hasty, and Lan Larison. However, the entire unit struggled to produce, averaging under 3.3 yards per carry. While Kiner's performance metrics may differ due to the varied circumstances, his combination of power and agility stands out as a significant asset for the Patriots.
As of September 1, Haskins and Larison have been retained on the Patriots' practice squad, indicating the team's commitment to building depth at the position. With Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson expected to lead the backfield, Kiner's role as RB3 could be crucial, especially if the team requires a reliable option for early-down situations. His physical running style positions him as a valuable asset capable of moving the chains and keeping the offense on track.
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