New England Patriots: 3 things to watch for in preseason finale

CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 24: Tom Brady #12 and teammates Julian Edelman #11 and Chris Hogan #15 of the New England Patriots talk on the bench in the third quarter against the Carolina Panthers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on August 24, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 24: Tom Brady #12 and teammates Julian Edelman #11 and Chris Hogan #15 of the New England Patriots talk on the bench in the third quarter against the Carolina Panthers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on August 24, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots
CHARLOTTE, NC – AUGUST 24: (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Can a wide receiver stand out?

With Eric Decker retiring the New England Patriots wide receiving corps continues to get thinner and thinner. Now the Patriots have Julian Edelman and Chris Hogan, I don’t doubt their skill. After them, it gets a little more worrisome.

We have yet to see Riley McCarron or Braxton Berrios have dominant games. One of these guys has to step up as they appear to be perfect replacements for Julian Edelman. They are quick slot receivers but just haven’t gotten in a rhythm.

Also, Corrdarrelle Patterson has improved, but I don’t know if the Patriots can trust him yet. He has worked on his routes but seems to only be suitable for screen passes and short passes. These allow for Patterson to use his speed and make defenders miss.

The only receiver I have confidence in is Phillip Dorsett. I think he is poised to have a great season. He should have an expanded role and plenty of targets. Dorsett has great speed and if he can get by opposing defenders he could put up some big numbers.

Next. Time to resume the Sony Michel hype. dark

On Thursday I hope to see McCarron, Berrios, or Patterson have a great outing, and give Patriots fans some hope.