When you think of the New England Patriots, you might picture Tom Brady's clutch throws or Bill Belichick's hoodie—but don't overlook the unsung heroes in the backfield. That's exactly where new Patriots fullback Reggie Gilliam is focusing his attention as he prepares for his first season in Foxborough.

Fresh off signing a three-year, $10.5 million contract in free agency, Gilliam is already hitting the film room hard. And one name keeps popping up: James Develin, the legendary Patriots fullback who helped define the team's dynasty era.

"I was actually watching film yesterday, and I see James Develin split out running a go route," Gilliam joked to Patriots Wire. "And I was like, 'Hey, if he can do it, I can do it.' No disrespect to James, but I'm a little more agile than him. But it's nice to see that Josh values that position in a way more than just running your head into a wall."

Develin isn't just any player to study—he's a three-time Super Bowl champion (2014, 2016, 2018) and earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2017, becoming the first Patriots fullback to achieve that honor since 1978. His versatility as both a blocker and a pass-catcher made him a Belichick favorite and a key piece of New England's offensive identity.

Gilliam's signing raised some eyebrows, but it makes perfect sense when you consider the Patriots' history with the position. The team has long valued fullbacks who can do more than just plow through defensive lines—they need players who can catch, block, and even run routes like a tight end.

With Develin's legacy as a blueprint, Gilliam is ready to carve out his own chapter in Patriots history. Whether he's splitting out wide or paving the way for running backs, this new Patriot is taking notes—and maybe even adding a few moves of his own.