Patriots gridiron news: Phillip Dorsett an X-factor; team adds Edelman clone
Bill Belichick talks addition of two new wide receivers
The New England Patriots will not only depend on Phillip Dorsett to make a major contribution this season, they also hope someone unexpected steps up.
It could be Jace Billingsley at some point during the season or it could be one of the two receivers the team claimed off waivers.
While neither Amara Darboh or Chad Hansen are household names, they are players the team have done their homework on and wouldn’t have been brought in if the team didn’t believe they could make some kind of contribution.
More from New England Patriots
- Former Patriot Stevan Ridley Put Kevin Hart in a Wheelchair
- 3 Patriots Who Can Clinch a Roster Spot in Final Preseason Game
- Patriots Get Win Over Division Rivals Before Season Even Begins
- New Massachusetts Sportsbook Promos: $450 Bonus to Bet on Your Patriots at Caesars + DraftKings
- Ezekiel Elliott Reveals 3 Reasons Why He Signed With Patriots
When asked about both players, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said just that.
"“Well, we looked at both players last year as part of the draft process,” Belichick said during his conference call Monday. “Also saw them in preseason this year – well, Hanson in preseason this year – and they were available. So, we’ll take a look at them, see how it goes.”"
Both Darboh and Hansen come in with a size and speed that can be utilized in some fashion. If anything, Darboh could factor in to the team’s punt return competition. While veteran players like the recently retired Eric Decker has had a tough time catching up in the Patriots’ system, a challenge for the team will be getting these two new receivers up-to-speed ahead of the Week 1 matchup with the Texans.
When asked about that challenge, Belichick said the team will take it day-by-day as they only have the players college performances to go off of. In short, neither player comes with high expectations.
"“Our expectations are just, again, short-term,” Belichick added. “Not trying to plan out anything other than where we are today, where we are tomorrow, see where we are the next day and just see how all that comes together.”"
Next. New England Patriots: 5 players who need to win fans over in 2018. dark
Of course, there is always hope a player catches on faster than expected. Going into the season with a wide receiver depth chart of Chris Hogan, Phillip Dorsett and Cordarelle Patterson, the New England Patriots need an unexpected surprise. Maybe Darboh or Hansen will be one.