New England Patriots: 5 wider receiver prospects team must draft

5 NFL wide receiver prospects New England Patriots must draft

PISCATAWAY, NJ - DECEMBER 18: Bo Melton #18 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights reacts after completing a catch during a regular season game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at SHI Stadium on December 18, 2020 in Piscataway, New Jersey. (Photo by Benjamin Solomon/Getty Images) /

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Rutgers wide receiver Bo Melton. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Why the New England Patriots must draft Bo Melton out of Rutgers

Even before Bo Melton arrived at the combine, there were details about him that made Melton New England Patriots material: Rutgers product, projects as a slot receiver, multi-year team captain, contributor as a receiver, runner and returner.

More. Who experts say the will Patriots draft. light

If New England selected Melton based on that alone, it wouldn’t had been a surprise. But his combine performance indicates that Melton won’t be just another slot receiver.

Melton melted the Lucas Oil Stadium turf with a 4.32-second 40, and followed that up with a 6.98-second three cone drill. He has the potential to be nearly uncoverable on short and intermediate routes, and run away from defenses once he has the ball in his hands. In other words, Melton could be a slot monster for the Patriots.

Melton might had improved his stock, but it might not be enough to get into the third round. Expect Melton to be available on day three.

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