4 Patriots on Thin Ice Following the NFL Draft

2. Juju Smith-Schuster, WR

Juju Smith-Schuster came to town last offseason when he signed with the Patriots on a three-year, $25.5 million deal. He was brought in to be a focal point of the aerial attack but that never came to fruition.

Smith-Schuster looked like a shell of himself and consistently struggled to create separation. That's certainly a big hit to his game because he was never a burner. He made a living being a sound route runner but that part of his game is evaporating.

In 2023, he recorded a measly 29 receptions for 260 yards, and just one touchdown. Those numbers in comparison to the players added this offseason and you can see the writing on the wall.

Smith-Schuster's time in Foxborough will likely be coming to an end soon. It's just a matter of time.

3. Tyquan Thornton, WR

WR Tyquan Thornton was selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft when Bill Belichick was at the helm. When Thornton was brought in, he was thought to be a viable playmaker who had game-breaking speed. At the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, Thornton ran an official 4.28-second 40-yard dash.

Unfortunately, things haven't been able to come together in the pros for the former Baylor product. He's had trouble getting on the field but when he has, the 23-year-old hasn't produced much.

Through two seasons, Thornton recorded 35 receptions for 338 yards and two touchdowns. Those stats won't cut it. The fact he wasn't able to make an impact in 2023 when the Pats were desperate for playmakers is very jarring.

All the moves New England made at WR showcased Thornton's time with the Pats could be over soon.