3 Bold Predictions for the Patriots Preseason

2. Demario Douglas Steals a Roster Spot

Expectations are typically low for sixth-round picks but that hasn’t stopped rookie wideout Demario Douglas from garnering some much-deserved attention.

Douglas has been one of the Patriots’ training camp standouts, using his speed and elusiveness to put defenders on notice. Training camp hype doesn’t always translate to on-field results, but there’s something special about Douglas if even well-respected veteran defenders like Jabrill Peppers can’t ignore what he’s been doing.

Douglas, 22, is coming off his best performance with the Libert Flames. The diminutive pass-catcher set new career highs last fall when it came to receptions (79) and receiving yards (993) while also racking up six touchdowns.

He likely won’t have similar success in the NFL (at least not right away), but the Patriots need all the help they can get.

The passing attack was largely uninspiring in 2022, so adding a speedy threat like Douglas — along with offseason acquisition JuJu Smith-Schuster — to the mix would provide a boost.

I expect Belichick to give Douglas plenty of opportunities to succeed this preseason after the training camp he’s had. Don’t be shocked if he exceeds expectations again by playing himself onto the 53-man roster.