5 Patriots Playing for Their Job in Preseason Week 1

5. Jaheim Bell, TE

As the 2024 NFL Draft wound down, the Patriots used a seventh-round pick on Florida State tight end Jaheim Bell. After three years at South Carolina, the transfer paid off as Bell set new career highs with 39 receptions and 503 receiving yards — while scoring two TDs — in 13 games with the Seminoles.

While some late-round picks struggle when they reach the NFL, Bell has thrived this offseason. He's done everything that the coaching staff has asked of him and has already found chemistry with Drake Maye, potentially indicating what could be in store for Patriots fans for years to come.

Veterans Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper will, more than likely, be New England's top TEs come September, leaving Bell to compete with free-agent addition Mitchell Wilcox for the No. 3 spot. Although Wilcox has the edge in experience and as a blocker, his lack of offensive upside makes him expendable.

If Bell can display his playmaking skills and avoid making blocking mistakes against the Panthers, his outlook is promising. He has a juicy opportunity to establish himself as a part of New England's attack as early as Thursday and failing to do so could see him end up on the practice squad or worse.

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