The New England Patriots descending offensively in 2020 is almost inevitable.
Tom Brady’s departure is the clear reason why, but the lack of big-time weapons is still a glaring issue. The team’s most reputable skill player is Julian Edelman — who’s 34-years-old and coming off an injury-riddled season. Fortunately, the signing of Cam Newton should be able to cover up some holes and make up for a lack of talent.
New England has a top-tier offensive line and drafted two tight ends that could be very productive. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell took all of these factors into consideration and ranked the worst to best offensive units heading into next season.
The Patriots landed at No. 21 on the list.
I’m quietly optimistic about the Patriots’ weapons, especially if you’re comparing them to what you saw at the end of 2019, when Julian Edelman and Mohamed Sanu were both compromised by injuries. Sanu tried to play through a high ankle sprain, while Edelman was battling knee and shoulder injuries, both of which required surgery after the season. They are each now on the wrong side of 30, so they might be past their peak, but they can be effective wideouts. If N’Keal Harry takes a step forward in Year 2, this could be a valuable three-wideout grouping.
The tight end room is also better, although that wouldn’t have been very difficult to accomplish. I’m skeptical of any rookie tight end making a difference, but Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene should be improvements on Matt LaCosse and Ryan Izzo. The Pats also will roll out their unusually deep group of running backs for another season, although expected lead back Sony Michel was a disappointment and lost Bill Belichick’s confidence as a receiver and goal-line back at times. Michel dropped three of his 20 targets; the only players in the league with more than 20 targets who had a higher drop rate were Chase Edmonds and Kalen Ballage.
Barnwell notes one of the most important factors to consider for the Patriots — the running back corps. If healthy, the offensive line and tight ends will create ample opportunities for the unique set of running backs to thrive and constantly get touches.
The addition of Newton made for a new dynamic and the Patriots could be better off than expected entering the season.
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