The New England Patriots are dangerously thin at wide receiver, holding just Julian Edelman, Chris Hogan, Malcolm Mitchell, and the potentially Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) Danny Amendola.
This is a group that needs help and the Patriots are about to look under every single rock.
Hearing that, as it looks right now--& things can change in a moment--Pats are going to go hard after WRs after cuts are done.
— Christopher Price (@cpriceNFL) September 3, 2016
Pats are shopping around for young wide receivers at the moment. Already cut Dobson, Carter and reportedly Martin.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) September 3, 2016
While there’s a chance that the Patriots would trade for a player, here are a list of players that have been released in the 53-man cutdowns that could be an option for the Patriots.
Former Panthers WR Keyarris Garrett
The 6’3, 215 pound Garrett has the largest wingspan for receivers in this past draft class, and he put it on display with a nice 34-yard reception against the Patriots in week 3 of the preseason. He was the college leader in reception yards last year and could serve as an outside option.
Former Texans WR Cecil Shorts III
Shorts actually beat out Keshawn Martin prior to Martin joining the Patriots, so this could be a minor upgrade. Shorts struggles to stay healthy, though, and would be a pretty big risk as a veteran.
Former Bears WR Daniel Braverman
Braverman would be a perfect fit with the Patriots as a slot receiver. He was one of the top receivers in college football and he actually lives up to the Wes Welker comparisons.
Former Giants WR Geremy Davis
Davis is 6’2, 220 pounds and collected 3 receptions for 30 yards against the Patriots last week. He’s lauded for his blocking ability, which is a quick way to get on Bill Belichick’s good side.
Former Patriots and Jets WR Kenbrell Thompkins
Eh, why not a reunion?
Former Steelers WR Demarcus Ayers
Ayers is another slot receiver out of the University of Houston and he had some of the best hands in the draft, dropping just 2 of 93 passes out of the slot- a position with a much higher drop rate.
Former Ravens WR Keenan Reynolds
The Patriots wanted to draft Reynolds, but the Ravens got the jump. Will the Patriots bring in this jackknife and former quarterback to compete for a role in the offense?
It will be interesting to see where the Patriots turn for help at the position.