New England Patriots: How the Julian Edelman suspension affects the Patriots
By Sam Minton
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A change of plans
Well first off it looks like Braxton Berrios will be getting some playing time right out of the gate. I don’t know if the Patriots knew something, but they signed, drafted, and traded for a good chunk of receivers. Occam’s razor states that the simplest solution is usually the correct one, so maybe the Patriots were aware of a possible suspension.
Berrios is a carbon-copy of Edelman. The Patriots might give Berrios an expanded role since they can run the same plays. Berrios will be used in the slot and be on the receiving end of short to medium range passes.
Also, this would now mean that Jordan Matthews will probably be a top-2 wideout. Matthews has been performing well when paired with Tom Brady during minicamp. The Patriots will need Matthews to perform well in the upcoming season so the Pats don’t fall behind early in the season.
The Edelman news also makes the Malcolm Mitchell situation even more important. Thursday’s practice was the first time we have seen Mitchell since the beginning of OTA’s. Even on Thursday Mitchell was practicing away from everyone else and more focused on rehab than actual football plays.
Edelman was slated to return to his top spot on the depth chart, but it looks like Chris Hogan will be taking over that role. Hogan has played great as a Patriots but has had some issues staying healthy. If Hogan is injured in those first 4 weeks the Patriots top receiver may be a guy who wasn’t on the roster at the beginning of the year.
Also, the Patriots running back core will have to help Brady and the offense out. Sony Michel, Rex Burkhead, and James White may get some more carries as the Pats may have a more balanced offense.