The Patriots Wide Receiver Depth Chart Has Become A First Class Problem
The Patriots wide receiver depth chart has gone from being questionable, to becoming a first class problem. Within the last 48 hours the Patriots got back three major pieces to the offense. With Josh Gordon back, and the return of Julian Edelman and Demarius Thomas, the Patriots find themselves with an abundance of solid receivers. Unfortunately for some, this means they will be looking for employment elsewhere in the next few weeks.
The Patriots current depth chart looks like this:
The sure things: Julian Edelman, N’Keal Harry, Matthew Slater
These 3 are absolute locks, though Slater would likely only serve as an emergency 6th or 7th receiver. Belichick has always been frugal in the past, keeping Slater as the 6th man but things may be different this season.
Highly likely: Josh Gordon, Jakobi Myers
Josh Gordon is the most talented receiver on this team and would be a sure thing if there were no questions about his ability to make it through the season without getting into trouble. We can only hope that Gordon has conquered his demons. That does not mean Bill Belichick will be fully on board, and if there is even the slightest hint Gordon will not be able to follow through, don’t be surprised if Belichick makes a shocking move much like he did with Terry Glenn a few games into the 2001 season.
There is nothing more to be said about Jakobi Myers. The kid has done everything that was asked of him and more. The rookie free agent should have already earned his spot on the roster. It would be a real shocker to Jakobi left off the team.
On the bubble: Demarius Thomas, Philip Dorsett
This is where the plot thickens. The Patriots have had very little time to work with Demarius Thomas. His sheer size is a perfect fit in the Patriots power offense. I would expect the Patriots to load him up in practice over the next few weeks. Philip Dorsett is a safe pick because he has a good knowledge of the playbook and is efficient when needed. If Belichick elects to keep an extra receiver this season I think he will earn a spot as a safety net.
Braxton Berrios, Ryan Davis, Maurice Harris, Gunner Olszewski and Patterson will likely be looking to catch on with another team soon.
Cameron Meredith is currently on the PUP list.
Spotted on the practice field: Demaryius Thomas ? pic.twitter.com/S6NEZb3GYn
— Patriots on NBCSB (@NBCSPatriots) August 20, 2019