4 Patriots Who Could Be Benched in Second Half of Season

4. Marco Wilson, CB

After being drafted 136th overall by the Cardinals in 2021, Marco Wilson's time in Arizona ended after just 43 games when he was released by the franchise last December. Fortunately, it didn't take the former Florida ballhawk long to find a new home as the Patriots claimed him off waivers one day later.

Wilson was limited to one game with the Patriots in 2023 due to the timing of when he joined the organization, leaving fans hoping for a more productive performance this season. The 25-year-old cornerback has since played all but one of the 10 outings thus far, however, his performance has left much to be desired.

PFF is giving Wilson a 56.4 coverage grade — 83rd among 108 CBs — after surrendering eight completions on 12 targets for 75 receiving yards, one touchdown, and a 111.5 passer rating. He's also missed 20.0% of his tackling attempts while taking two penalties, too, further illustrating how frustrating he's been to watch this year.

There's just little to like about Wilson's game, especially when he can't tackle or defend passes. He's also due to hit unrestricted free agency in the offseason and failing to pull off a turnaround could see him looking to play elsewhere come March.

Perhaps Wilson still has what it takes to be an NFL-caliber cornerback one day. He just might not have the opportunity to prove that in New England based on how the season is unfolding.

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