Undrafted free agent (UDFA) rookie running back Lan Larison knew he would join the New England Patriots before the 2025 NFL Draft concluded, a compelling story of confidence and swift decision-making.
Decision Made Before the Draft Ended
Lan Larison, a former standout at UC Davis, surprised his college coach, Tim Plough, with a phone call while the 2025 NFL Draft was still ongoing. Plough initially thought Larison was calling to announce he had been drafted. Instead, Larison shared a bold decision: he had chosen to sign with the New England Patriots if he went undrafted. “He called to say he had decided he was going to be a Patriot,” Plough recounted via NESN. “I said, ‘Lan, you could still get drafted.’ He replied, ‘Yeah, that’s if I don’t get drafted.’ It was funny to hear him say he already knew he was going with the Patriots while the draft was still going on.”
Larison’s confidence was not without foundation. A key factor in his leaning toward the Patriots was a personal call from head coach Mike Vrabel. This call left a strong impression, showing that the Patriots genuinely valued his potential.
Journey to the NFL
Lan Larison, a talent from Idaho, received no offers from Division I schools out of high school. Instead, he chose UC Davis, where he quickly established himself as one of the top players at the FCS level. Over five seasons with the UC Davis Aggies, Larison amassed 3,634 rushing yards, 41 rushing touchdowns, 127 receptions for 1,626 yards, and 10 receiving touchdowns. His final season in 2024 was particularly impressive, with 1,465 rushing yards, 17 touchdowns, and 847 receiving yards on 62 catches.
Beyond his skills as a running back, Larison showcased versatility by contributing on kick returns and special teams. He even led his college team in punt team tackles, a rare feat for a top offensive player. This versatility made him an appealing prospect for the NFL, particularly for a team like the Patriots, where coach Vrabel values players who can contribute in multiple roles.
Lucrative Contract and Opportunity with the Patriots
After the 2025 NFL Draft concluded, the Patriots swiftly signed Larison as a UDFA, offering a deal with $175,000 in guaranteed money, including a $25,000 signing bonus and $150,000 in guaranteed salary. This significant sum for an undrafted player indicates that the Patriots had to compete with other teams to secure his signature. According to ESPN, this amount surpasses the guaranteed money of some seventh-round picks, underscoring the value the Patriots placed on Larison.
This lucrative contract is not only a reward for Larison’s stellar performance at UC Davis but also a sign that the Patriots believe he can earn a spot on the 53-man roster. With the Patriots’ current running back group, including Rhamondre Stevenson, Antonio Gibson, and rookie draftee TreVeyon Henderson, Larison faces stiff competition. However, his special teams ability and smooth receiving skills could help him carve out a role, particularly in special teams or as a versatile backup running back.
Potential to Be the Next Success Story
Lan Larison has drawn attention not only for his on-field talent but also for his viral social media presence, with old videos showcasing his steer wrestling skills from high school, where he was the nation’s top-ranked competitor in the sport. At 6 feet tall and 215 pounds, with strength and agility honed from his wrestling background, Larison brings a unique playing style, drawing comparisons to versatile players like Christian McCaffrey or Taysom Hill.
Despite the challenge of transitioning from FCS to the NFL, Larison has shown promise in the Patriots’ rookie minicamp. Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston noted that Larison stood out with “smooth receiving skills” and the ability to get out of the backfield for catches. Coach Plough also highlighted Larison’s humility and work ethic, noting that he’s willing to do whatever it takes—whether playing special teams or rushing—to earn a roster spot.
Conclusion
Lan Larison embodies an inspiring underdog story. From an overlooked high school player to a star at UC Davis, he now stands on the cusp of making a name for himself in the NFL with the New England Patriots. His bold decision to choose the Patriots before the draft ended, coupled with a lucrative contract and support from coach Mike Vrabel, shows that Larison possesses not only talent but also confidence and a clear vision for his future.
Can Lan Larison become the next success story for the Patriots, like legendary UDFAs before him? Only time and his performance in training camp and the preseason will tell. But with what he’s already shown, Larison is undoubtedly a name for Patriots fans to watch closely in the 2025 season.