New England Patriots 2019: 3 most important players not named Tom Brady
1. Julian Edelman
Two seasons ago proved the New England Patriots could win without Julian Edelman.
However, that was a team that still had Rob Gronkowski, Brandon Cooks, Danny Amendola and Chris Hogan as targets for Tom Brady. That team eventually lost Super Bowl LII, but one has to wonder whether they would’ve have won if Edelman was in the mix.
Related Story. Julian Edelman is the definition of ‘mentally tough’. light
Besides making so many clutch catches, as he did during the team’s Super Bowl LIII run, Edelman is a tenacious force on the field that just sparks the offense. That is why without Gronk and only Phillip Dorset and 2019 first-round pick N’Keal Harry as the only receivers locked to make the roster, Edelman is extra important this upcoming season.
While new playmakers find their niche and chemistry with Brady, Julian Edelman will be that reliable target the team needs to move the chains. More importantly, his leadership will go a long way in the development of Harry who already said he is becoming a better route runner because of Edelman’s influence.
Next. New England Patriots 5 most dangerous weapons entering 2019 season. dark
He can also help mold a slot player like Braxton Berrios who has impressed during mandatory minicamp. Added to Julian Edelman’s importance is his versatility. He is able to do multiple things within the offense and also return punts for the team.
Needless to say, if anything happened to Julian Edelman this season, the New England Patriots will have a tough time offensively unless some unknown weapon emerges as a top offensive threat.