Grading the signing: Reggie Gilliam signing opens up the New England Patriots' offense in a way they didn't have last season

The New England Patriots made a surprising splash in free agency, plucking fullback Reggie Gilliam way from AFC East rival Buffalo Bills.

The addition of Gilliam was a smart one by the Patriots, and it will be a key part of their offense's growth next season as they build around quarterback Drake Maye.

Reggie Gilliam signing opens up Patriots' offense in a big way

One area the Patriots' offense struggled season was their run blocking, particularly in their tight end room. Head coach Mike Vrabel touched on this last month, and cited New England's need to evolve in this area next year.

"...being able to create some movement before the snap going laterally, that then could transition into getting into the line of scrimmage. So, you see these tight end blocks that are kind of changing and evolving, and we have to be conscious of who we have, how we need to run the football, and ideas that we can give them."

Gilliam is a fantastic start to doing so, as he is one of the most-complete fullbacks in the league. In the run game, he is a fantastic mover, and is capable of executing any blocking assignment given to him. Gilliam was a key cog in James Cook's ascendance and production as a rusher in Buffalo, and he'll do so for Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson for the foreseeable future.