New England Patriots: Top 4 positions of need heading into the offseason
New England Patriots position of need No. 2: Wide Receiver
The wide receiver room looked a little light heading into the season, and there was hope a trade deadline move could have been in store for the Pats. Instead, the move to add another receiver was pushed off until after the season. Running with a top trio of Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne, and Nelson Agholor seemed to be a bit risky, and while it worked out better than expected, it’s clear they still need some help at this position.
https://twitter.com/TheAthletic/status/1449879886588383233
For the most part, Meyers and Bourne turned into a solid duo that Jones relied on heavily. Agholor didn’t really pan out in his first season, although it makes sense because the offense relied heavily on the short passing game, and Agholor profiles as more of a deep threat. And then there’s N’Keal Harry, who somehow found more ways to disappoint this season.
Despite the success of the Meyers/Bourne duo, the offense as a whole would benefit greatly from the addition of a true number one wide receiver. They may not have the funds available to sign a guy like Davante Adams or Chris Godwin, but they could look to make a trade for someone of this caliber. They could hope the Chicago Bears would franchise tag Robinson and then trade him, or they could look to trade for a guy like Calvin Ridley too.
Meyers and Bourne will obviously return next season, but the goal should be to find a top wideout to pair with them. I doubt Harry will be on the roster next season, and considering the amount of money Agholor’s deal is worth, it wouldn’t be a total surprise to see him get moved at some point either. There aren’t a ton of wideouts who would be available for small price tags, unless you want to take a flier on a guy like Odell Beckham Jr.
The Patriots did a good job reinventing their offense last offseason, but it was clear that they were missing a top receiver many times this past season. Bringing on a top wide receiver could just be what New England’s offense needs to take things to the next level.