New England Patriots: 6 potential first time Pro Bowlers in 2021
When it comes to 2020 Pro Bowlers, the New England Patriots only had three players earn the honors following a 7-9 season. Two of those players were on special teams.
That pretty much summed up how the season went for Bill Belichick and the Tom Brady-less Patriots. It also exposed just how depleted of talent the team was.
Other than star cornerback Stephon Gilmore, who was named to his third consecutive Pro Bowl, punter Jake Bailey and special teamer Matthew Slater were the only other players recognized. No skill position players on the offensive side, no one from the team’s defensive front seven.
That doesn’t mean there weren’t a couple players deserving of the Pro Bowl like No. 2 cornerback J.C. Jackson, but it certainly highlighted the team’s deficiencies.
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Expect that to change in 2021 as the Patriots have brought in talent at those skill positions via free agency and the draft. They also have some second- and third-year players expected to make major leaps this upcoming NFL season. Are there some first time Pro Bowlers on the horizon?
Let’s explore.
6. New England Patriots have found something special in Jakobi Meyers
A former quarterback converted to wide receiver who leads the team in receiving yards. Sound familiar?
Oh, we are not talking Julian Edelman, we are talking about former undrafted free agent Jakobi Meyers who was one of the bright spots for the New England Patriots in 2020.
Ironically, it was the season and career-ending injury suffered by Edelman that allowed Meyers the opportunity to make a leap in 2020. With a lack of reliable weapons in the passing game, the N.C. State product certainly flourished becoming Cam Newton’s go-to man racking up 729 yards on 59 receptions.
Yes, I know, not exactly Pro Bowl numbers, but 2020 was just Meyers’ second season in the NFL. And given the fact that he also threw for two touchdowns, Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels got creative with Meyers and expect more of that in 2021.
A potential Pro Bowler?
It would be nice and a great story for Meyers, but that is not a prediction I would take to the bank considering the infusion of playmakers at the tight end position and a couple of receivers in Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne who come to New England with higher expectations.
Still, Meyers has an opportunity to make another leap in his third year. With increased confidence and a deeper knowledge of the offensive game plan, don’t be surprised if the third-year receiver stakes his claim to that slot receiver role. Beyond that, sky is the limit for Jakobi Meyers in an offense that typically depends on the short passing game.