Hochstein as the Fridge?

With the departure of free-agent Heith Evans to New Orleans, the Pats are left without a true full-back on their roster. Evans played primarily as a blocker on third down and short yardage situations. He could also be counted on to catch a short screen to convert on third down.

Coach Belichick views every spot on the 53 man roster as being critical and has employed various positional players in the full-back role. He doesn't necessarily want to go back to using Richard Seymour on goal-line situations. It doesn't look like Junior Seau will perform that role as he did in the 06 & 07 seasons.

The end of last season saw the emergence of Offensive Lineman Russ Hochstein as a powerful force in blocking situations as full-back. Hochstein played the position sporadically over the last few seasons, but was used a great deal in the last game against Buffalo. Perhaps we will see more of him in 09. It's hard to believe that Belichick would use a pick on a FB. Former Patriot LB/DL Joe Klecko has found a niche at FB with the Eagles last season.

It's interesting to note that the use of linemen at FB got a great deal of attention in 1985 when Chicago Bears Coach Mike Ditka used DL William "Refrigerator" Perry during a Monday night game with Walter Payton. He proceeded to score a touchdown and a legend was anointed by the late Howard Cossell. Ditka would use the "Fridge" to score a 1 yard TD in Super Bowl XX in their 46-10 win over the Pats.

I always remember Ditka was upset at the "Fridge" during the 1986 season. He said the "Fridge" would never carry the ball or be in the back-field as long as his weight was over 300. Hochstein uses his 305 pounds to clear space much to the praise of Coach Belichick.

Hall of Fame Guard John Hannah who starred for 13 seasons and retired after 1985, played his career at 275. He might have been able to line up at tight end in this era.