Latest On Free Agent RB LeGarrette Blount

The Patriots used a May 9 tender on free agent running back LeGarrette Blount earlier this week, ensuring that they’d be entitled to a compensatory pick if Blount signs elsewhere. Clubs with interest in Blount are now attempting to “navigate” the compensatory pick process, tweets Josina Anderson of ESPN.com, and are working on “deal structures” that could work around the comp selection system.LeGarrette Blount (vertical)

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Blount, 30, had reportedly been nearing a deal with an unidentified team before being slapped with the New England tender. He can still negotiate with other clubs, but will now count against the 2018 compensatory formula. However, the last compensatory pick is currently tied to a $2.05MM annual salary, so the club that inks Blount would only sacrifice a 2018 comp selection if Blount earns more than that total.

Some teams with interest in Blount, such as the Lions, don’t have to consider any possible compensatory pick forfeiture, as they aren’t projected to earn any comp selections in 2018. Other clubs, like the Giants and Ravens, could conceivably work out a trade with the Patriots after New England signs Blount, as Nick Korte of Over the Cap speculates.

If Blount doesn’t sign by July 22, the Patriots will own exclusive negotiating rights through Week 10 of the regular season. If Blount doesn’t sign his tender (or agree to another deal) with New England before then, he’ll be forced to sit out the entire 2017 campaign.

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