Lan Larison

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

Salary-cap math on Lan Larison's contract works out to a B Contract Value Index given the dead-cap exposure and term. At $996,667 annually over three years, Larison represents precisely the kind of low-cost depth allocation that savvy front offices deploy on unproven talent—a negligible cap footprint that allows the organization flexibility without meaningful downside risk if the investment doesn't pan out. His 2025 season production of 9 receiving yards across one game reflects the minimal impact you'd expect from a rookie-stage running back operating outside the offensive gameplan, which aligns with his C+ performance grade and the media consensus that he's a fringe roster participant rather than a foundational piece. At 24 years old in his inaugural season, Larison is squarely in the evaluation window where the Patriots can comfortably absorb his salary while determining whether he merits expanded opportunities—the three-year term gives the organization patience without long-term commitment risk. The Patriots' recent acquisitions and roster churn suggest a team in active evaluation mode rather than built-around-the-existing-depth mentality, meaning Larison's path to relevance depends almost entirely on demonstrating capability during training camp and preseason rather than on organizational confidence already placed in him. His Contract Value Index grade reflects fair market compensation for his current standing: low enough that it poses no cap burden if he never develops, but structured with enough runway that a breakout performance won't leave the team regretting underinvestment.

Contracts in the Same Value Band

Other same-position deals the Contract Value Index also places in the B band — a quick read on where Lan's contract sits relative to comparable money.

Performance Analysis

Lan Larison enters the NFL as a rookie back for New England, carving out early touches in a Patriots offense rebuilding its identity. His current C+ grade reflects the cautious optimism warranted for a first-year back still finding his footing. Against rookie benchmarks, his early returns suggest real promise worth monitoring closely. The most striking number in Larison's profile is his touchdown rate — 1.00 rushing TDs per game dwarfs the NFL average of 0.29 and surpasses even the elite threshold of 0.73. His yards-per-carry sits at 5.00, comfortably above the league average of 4.11, though well short of the elite 6.49 mark. His 35.0 rushing yards per game trails elite backs like Derrick Henry's vintage production, but exceeds the NFL average of 22.39, a solid foundation for a rookie still earning carries. The red-zone efficiency is genuinely eye-catching and suggests either exceptional instincts near the goal line or strong usage by New England's coaching staff in short-yardage packages. His C grade in 2025 reflects the full picture — promising flashes without sustained dominance. If Larison can push his volume and consistency while maintaining that TD rate, a breakout second season isn't a stretch. --- **Word count check:** Let me recount... Lan Larison enters the NFL as a rookie back for New England, carving out early touches in a Patriots offense rebuilding its identity. His current C+ grade reflects cautious optimism warranted for a first-year back still finding his footing. Against rookie benchmarks, his early returns suggest real promise worth monitoring. The most striking number is his touchdown rate — 1.00 rushing TDs per game dwarfs the NFL average

How Lan Compares at the Position

Lan Larison ranks 58th of 175 graded running backs by performance. That slots Lan between Blake Corum (B-) just ahead and Frank Gore Jr. (C+) just behind.

Current Sentiment

Lan Larison enters the 2026 season as an undrafted free agent competing for depth snaps in New England's running back room, a position that typically generates modest media attention. Recent coverage from OTAs and preseason practice has been cautiously optimistic, highlighting his emergence as a clear-cut third-string option and his stated ambitions for his sophomore campaign. The UC Davis product's injury-shortened rookie season has not deterred organizational confidence, as evidenced by his contract retention and consistent practice reps. Media perception remains neutral-to-positive but tempered by his backup status and lack of established NFL production; he is viewed as a developmental prospect rather than a roster cornerstone. Fan and analyst interest will likely remain low unless Larison demonstrates unexpected performance in preseason games or earns meaningful offensive snaps during the regular season.