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New England Patriots: Five bold predictions for the 2017 season

By Ben Porter

HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: A New England Patriots fan holds a sign prior to Super Bowl 51 against the Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: A New England Patriots fan holds a sign prior to Super Bowl 51 against the Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
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1. Brandin Cooks will lead the team in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns

Last season the wealth was spread amongst the entire Patriots receiving corps along with some running backs. Julian Edelman led the team in receptions (98) and receiving yards (1106), while Martellus Bennett led in receiving touchdowns (7).

With Rob Gronkowski injured for much of the season, there was no one dominant presence in the Patriots receiving corps. That has changed. Brandin Cooks is a legitimate deep threat and has a chance to become one of Tom Brady’s go-to options. He’s coming off of back to back seasons with over 75 receptions, 1100 yards, and 8 TDs.

Now on a team where defenses will not be able to focus on shutting him down, Cooks will dominate. He’s already shown a strong rapport with Brady in the preseason, and I fully expect that to translate into the regular season. While Edelman will still be Brady’s safety valve, Cooks will find himself in the open field a lot. An 80 reception, 1500 yard, 15 TD season is a reasonable predictions for Cooks.

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