3 Surprise Rookies Who Could Make Patriots' 53-Man Roster

2. Jaheim Bell, TE

NFL fans and coaches alike don't typically have high expectations for Day 3 draft picks in their first year. After all, they're usually selected that late for a reason, which is why it's understandable if Patriots fanatics aren't expecting much from 2024 seventh-rounder Jaheim Bell.

While that may be true, the former Florida State pass-catcher could have what it takes to crack the 53-man roster.

While Hunter Henry is returning as the TE1 while Austin Hooper was signed for the TE2 role, the rest of the depth chart is fluid. The Patriots also signed veteran Mitchell Wilcox earlier this offseason, however, I don't believe he's much of a threat to the ex-Seminole.

Although he has three NFL seasons under his belt, Wilcox hardly impressed in them, hauling in 29 catches for 211 receiving yards and one touchdown in 48 career games. He was brought in to fill a blocking role, which isn't as necessary now given that Hooper is a solid blocker, having tallied a Pro Football Focus pass block grade of 81.5 last year.

Meanwhile, Bell displayed some offensive potential in his lone year at FSU, hauling in 39 balls for a career-high 503 receiving yards and two TDs. He can also be used in the backfield when need be, proven by his 73 carries for 261 rushing yards and three touchdowns with South Carolina in 2022.

Having already fostered chemistry with Maye during OTAs, Bell is in a good spot to make the Patriots roster in his first NFL season. All he needs to do is keep up the hard work in training camp and it's going to be hard for the coaching staff to say no to him.