Breakout Candidates For Patriots’ Offense
The Patriots have piled up some young talent on offense over the years, trying to rebuild after the Tom Brady – Rob Gronkowski – Julian Edelman era. Unfortunately, it’s safe to say that it will probably never be the same.
However, there are a few youngsters that could take the next step in their careers. Possibly make a name for themselves. These are the guys I think have the potential to do so.
Jakobi Meyers, Wide Receiver
Jakobi Meyers was yet another undrafted gem by Bill Belichick. Outperforming first-round selection N’Keal Harry every year. In 2020, Meyers made a big leap from his first season, as he went from 359 yards and 26 receptions in his rookie year. Then to 729 yards on 59 receptions in his second season.
Meyers finally scored the first receiving touchdown of his career in Week 10 against the Cleveland Browns this past season and finished his third season with 866 yards, 83 receptions, and two touchdowns.
Although Jakobi is projected to be the third receiver target for the Patriots this season, he could shock the league with a Deebo Samuel-type breakout season. Don’t forget, Deebo was considered to be the fifth-best receiver in his draft class before this season. Now he’s clearly the best. Don’t sleep on Jakobi this season.
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Rhamondre Stevenson, Running Back
Watching Rhamondre Stevenson has me reminiscing on LeGarrette Blount’s time with the Patriots. Some big-bodied backs with quick feet and good speed for their size. Rhamondre had a pretty impressive rookie season, with 606 yards on 133 attempts and five touchdowns on the ground.
He also added 123 yards on 14 receptions in the air. This is the number two running back on the roster. The sky’s the limit for Stevenson in his second year. As he will play a crucial role in the New England offense this season.
Jonnu Smith, Tight End
Jonnu Smith’s first year with the Patriots was pretty underwhelming. But The Patriots had a lot of new acquisitions on offense last season, and it was hard to scheme him into the deep offense. This year, I have more optimism, with Mac Jones in his second year. Having most of the other free agents growing in the system.
Jonnu is a big, versatile playmaker, and can be a dangerous weapon if they can just get the ball in his hands. There have been whispers that Smith may be coming out of the backfield in more two-back sets.
The team can also spread it out with Smith in the two-tight end set, or even in the slot. The Patriots want to improve their offense, a breakout year from Jonnu would be massive.
Michael Onwenu, Offensive Guard
Michael Onwenu was yet another impressive successful late-round draft pick by Belichick. Which was a lifesaver for New England’s offensive line. After the departures of Shaq Mason, Joe Thuney, and Ted Karras in recent years. Mac Jones still has elite quarterback protection.
Although the statistics field still has yet to come up with the most accurate method of grading offensive linemen, Onwenu’s 87.0 PFF Grade tells us that he is one of the league’s best. Now, he has more weight on his shoulders.
So a breakout season would be huge for the Patriot’s offensive line that just lost two starting guards. He always played the best at right guard which is why the team made the Mason move.
Mac Jones, Quarterback
I don’t know how the rest of the NFL allowed Mac Jones to fall to the Patriots. But I’m not complaining: New England now has their guy. Mac will likely be the franchise quarterback for quite some time. In his rookie year, Mac Jones threw for 3,801 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions, as well as a 67.6% completion percentage. Basically leading the rookie class in every metric.
This kid is going to be special, and with a whole off-season to develop, there’s no doubt that the former Alabama quarterback will greatly improve next season.
The addition of DeVante Parker was also a great move to give Jones a deep threat. He is already working hard to improve his arm strength. Out of everyone on this list, I have the most confidence in Mac Jones to have a breakout season.
2022 NFL Draft Rookie
This year’s draft appears to be deep in nearly every position, including offensive skill positions. Although most mock drafts have New England taking defense in the first round. There are some later-round options like John Metchie III, Slade Bolden, and James Cook. They are all intriguing additions to the offense.
Especially if New England elects to pick a receiver from Alabama. This is a popular theme of quarterback-receiver duos from college reuniting in the NFL (ie. Derek Carr and Davante Adams, Joe Burrow, and Jamarr Chase).
Could be a good route for the Patriots to take in the draft. Don’t be surprised if one of the biggest breakout players in New England next season is a rookie.
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