Dan Vitale Ready To Fill Any Role For Patriots

Dan Vitale will this season play a part in New England’s desired renaissance, as well as a renaissance of his fullback position. 

Dan Vitale arrives in New England via a somewhat nomadic NFL career so far. The fullback has played for the Bucs, the Bills, the Browns and the Packers. 

Fullback is not the most fashionable position these days. However, it is in vogue in New England, largely thanks to the recently retired James Develin.

Dan Vitale says he’s relishing the opportunity to to replace the storied Patriots fullback.

Want $250 to bet on NFL futures?

Sign up now!

“It’s definitely some pretty dang big shoes to fill,” Vitale said.

“James was a hell-of-a player, I’ve enjoyed watching him, really since I got in the league now and he was really a role model at the position. Fullback, a lot of people don’t typically noticed how important that role can be and I think it was pretty clear how important James really was to this Patriots team over the last how ever many years. I definitely have some big shoes to fill but I’m really looking forward to the opportunity as well, working with a lot of the other guys.”

After struggling to carve out a niche initially, Vitale now feels he’s ready to contribute in a variety of ways. It’s a mindset that should serve him well in the team-oriented Patriots locker room. 

Read: AFC West Is Strong, But Chiefs Are Overwhelming Favorite

“There’s only a handful of teams in the league that use fullbacks nowadays,” Vitale said.

“When I was in Tampa Bay, I was more of a tight end, wing-type of player. In Cleveland, I was kind of a hand-in-the-ground, bruising type fullback. And then in my time in Green Bay, I did a little bit of both. I was kind of all over the field,” Vitale said. 

“(I) learn as much as I can for as many spots as I can. So whenever they need somebody to step in, I can fill that role.”