The New England Patriots just won the Super Bowl but reports are indicating that might lose one of the key pieces in their championship run. Rumors are suggesting that the New England Patriot's LeGarrette Blount might leave the team as a free agent.

LeGarrette Blount is set to become an unrestricted free agent this Thursday according to Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports. According to him, several teams will make an offer to LeGarrette Blount that the New England Patriots' will not match.

LeGarrette Blount who turned 30 in December is coming off his best season in his career. He posts team and career highs in 200 carries, 1,161 rushing yards and 18 rushing takedowns. And with a salary of just $760,000 in 2016, LeGarrette Blount is bound for a raise in which several teams would be willing to provide.

Meanwhile, LeGarrette Blount said that he hopes to re-sign with the New England Patriots. But with his performance last season, expect several teams to be on the hunt for the free agent. Teams will likely give LeGarrette Blount a bigger contract which will pressure the New England Patriots to match. The New England Patriots will have to reflect on LeGarrette Blount's value to the team and the cost to retain his services.

On the other hand, the New England Patriots allows LeGarrette Blount to leave, expect them to find a capable replacement. The New England Patriots will be looking for someone with the similar skill set as LeGarrette Blount. Dion Lewis, James White, and D.J Foster are all possible alternatives for LeGarrette Blount. The three of them are quicker and better at catching the ball out of the backfield but lack LeGarrette Blount's size and strength.

It's safe to say that nobody can replace what LeGarrette Blount brings to the table. For the New England Patriots, keeping him on the team will certainly cost more but it will provide them a better chance at repeating than bringing someone else.

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