New England Patriots: 4 bold predictions that will make 2022 unforgettable

3. DeVante Parker will have 1,000 yards and four 100-yard receiving games

The New England Patriots have had mixed results with veteran receivers, which is understandable. Usually they’re taking a flier on a player that had a down year or two, hoping the change in scenery results in a bounce back season.

DeVante Parker is the latest pass catcher the Patriots are taking a chance on. With a career riddled with injuries, the Miami Dolphins parted with their former 2015 first round draft pick to a division rival, which is unusual.

Yes, Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill made Parker unnecessary in Miami. But to move Parker, with a 2022 fifth round pick, for a 2023 third round selection somewhat suggests what the Dolphins think of Parker – they’re not worried about facing him twice this season.

Parker gets to show the Dolphins they’re wrong in the season opener. QB Mac Jones’ new number one receiver will get off to a strong start, showing he still has a lot of game left.

That momentum will continue through the year as Parker notches his second career 1,000-yard season. To get there, he will also log four 100-yard games.

They’re modest accomplishments, but significant for the Patriots. It’s been two years since a receiver had a 100-yard game. Remarkably, in this pass-happy NFL, New England did not have a receiver eclipse the century mark in a game. Jakobi Meyers was the last player to do so on Dec 20, 2020.

New England’s receivers are better this year, so expect a few receivers to reach triple digits this season.

As for a wide out with a grand season, we have to go back almost 10 years to Julian Edelman’s 2013 season. Again, this is about receivers. So Rob Gronkowski’s first team All-Pro 2017 season doesn’t count.

Now the injuries that derailed Parker’s previous seasons could strike again. But if he stays healthy through 17 games, completing the two achievements is well within reach.