Patriots camp preview

Updated: July 21, 2006, 3:26 PM ET
By Keith Kidd | Scouts Inc.

Three Burning Questions

Can Corey Dillon still produce?
The Patriots drafted Laurence Maroney in the first round of the 2006 draft as the back of the future. Dillon was hampered by injuries throughout the 2005 season. He led the team in rushing with 733 yards but had a career-low 3.5 yards-per-carry average. Dillon is still a strong physical runner who does have some declining skills based on his age and durability concerns. However, he is still a very productive runner who has value on first and second down. Maroney is an intriguing young back who has explosive breakaway speed to go along with short-area burst, vision and quickness. The biggest key in Maroney's development will be his ability to adjust and react as a blocker in sub situations. Even though he should contribute a lot in his rookie year, if things fall into place, he will not surpass Dillon as the feature runner in New England this year.

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