New England Patriots: 5 Unlikely Heroes of Super Bowl LI

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Jan 22, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots president Jonathan Kraft celebrates with Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola (80) after the Patriots’ game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2017 AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Danny Amendola

As a player who has a Super Bowl victory under his belt, Patriots receiver Danny Amendola is hoping to make an impact in Houston. Not only will it be a homecoming for Amendola, it could possibly be his last game in a Patriots uniform.

Considering the fact that he was signed as a possible replacement for the great Wes Welker, the product of Texas Tech has morphed more into a reliable role player in the Patriots’ offense. He has developed some chemistry with Tom Brady, but with the emergence of both Chris Hogan and Malcolm Mitchell in the passing game, Amendola has seen his snaps decrease.

The 31-year-old wide receiver have his chances to impact the game as a punt-returner, but also expect him to get some plays called his way in the short passing game. The Falcons defense will focus in on Julian Edelman, Hogan and Bennett, which will leave Amendola as an outlet for Brady.

If this is the end

Above all, the veteran receiver hopes to go out on top if this is his last game with the Patriots or even in the NFL.

"“I’m prepared and I feel really well. I feel strong and fast,” Amendola said via the Providence Journal. “I’m going to use everything I have this weekend and let it all go. Then have a lot of time to rehab and get better, get strong and have a good offseason when the time comes. I’m focused on one thing, and that’s the game.”"

Expect a key punt return from Danny Amendola and at least two key catches in this game.

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