New England Patriots: 3 biggest storylines heading into Training Camp
No More Julian Edelman: Who establishes themselves as the New England Patriots top pass catcher?
When Julian Edelman retired this offseason, the receiving core of the Patriots took a step back after looking to be in its best shape in a few years. Edelman, despite the injuries, had shown that he was still as dynamic as ever when he was on the field last season. Once he went down, the entire offense took a massive step back and showed that they needed help.
So what did Belichick do? He got the needed help.
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Adding Nelson Agholor, Kendrick Bourne, and the two top tight ends in free agency Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith. These additions instantly made the Patriots offense feel like they had a new identity and one that has been needed since the days of Brady being here. Adding them to the likes of Jakobi Meyers, Gunner Olszewski, and maybe N’Keal Harry gives everyone hope that this offense can be a force.
That being said, who will be the player to establish themselves as the top pass catcher?
Our guess is that no matter who is at quarterback, either Henry or Smith will be the option to lead the team in receptions. Two TE sets are going to be a constant for the team this year and with Agholor being able to spread the field as a deep threat, both Henry and Smith should eat up underneath. Smith will be getting work in the slot and outside while Henry will more than likely lineup at the normal tight end spot game in and game out.
Seeing that Cam Newton has proven success with tight ends in his career (Greg Olsen), they are a shoo-in to be the force that drives this offense especially if he is at the helm like many still expect.