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Patriots Might Benefit as Intriguing WR's Draft Stock Takes a Hit

ByEfstathios Savvidis|
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Nov 29, 2025; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; TCU Horned Frogs wide receiver Eric McAlister (1) runs with the ball during the game between the Horned Frogs and the Bearcats at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Nov 29, 2025; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; TCU Horned Frogs wide receiver Eric McAlister (1) runs with the ball during the game between the Horned Frogs and the Bearcats at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Even amid recent rumors of a potential trade for Philadelphia Eagles’ star wide receiver A.J. Brown, the New England Patriots still need to add to the receiving corps in the draft. Looking at the franchise’s future at the position, New England currently has three receivers under contract after this season–making it critical to bolster their depth at the position. 

Considering quarterback Drake Maye has proven he’s capable of leading the team to the Super Bowl, providing him with a quality supporting cast should be the Patriots’ top priority moving forward. Fortunately, this year’s receiving class is considered to be extremely deep, giving the Patriots flexibility to address the position in the later rounds while they tackle their urgent needs early.

One intriguing option they should target is TCU's wide receiver Eric McAlister, whose draft has recently dipped after suffering a broken foot in his Pro Day. 

Eric McAlister Would Bolster NE’s Depth at WR

McAlister, 23, played four years at the college level, splitting his time between Boise State and TCU. In his time at both programs, McAlister proved to be a consistent playmaker, averaging 18.2 yards per reception for his career. 

Last season, McAlister had his most productive year for the Horned Frogs, logging 72 receptions for 1,190 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. His impressive play earned him a 78.4 receiving grade, per Pro Football Focus, ranking 91st out of 679 qualified receivers. 

Despite coming off his best season–earning First-team All-Big 12 honors–McAlister isn’t guaranteed to be selected. According to NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus board, McAlister is listed as a No. 243 pick, meaning he’s barely projected to be drafted at all. 

Even before his injury, Lance Zierlien of NFL.com noted some weaknesses in McAlister’s game, particularly his footwork and catching the ball with his body. However, these are common concerns with late-round receivers and can be easily fixed by the right coaching staff.

In offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ system, McAlister can progress and develop into a steady contributor. With his speed and big-play ability, he would be a great fit for McDaniels’ scheme, which likes to take shots downfield and ranked first in yards per pass attempt (8.5) last season.

Given McAlister’s 6’3” frame and playmaking ability, he should be atop the Patriots’ Day 3 targets at the position. Given that they have five selections within the last two rounds at their disposal, New England should take a chance on him. 

While earning a spot on the active roster would be a challenge for him, his upside is worth investing a late-round selection in.

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