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D’Eriq King doesn’t have a position in the NFL — not yet. The New England Patriots are ready to experiment with the former Miami Hurricanes quarterback to see how he might fit in their offense.
King went undrafted last weekend, but signed with the Patriots not long after the draft process finished up. The 5-foot-11, 195-pound prospect was a dual threat, creating explosive plays with his arms and legs. That’s why he’s drawn comparisons to Julian Edelman, even if the retired Patriot was a better athlete than King coming out of Kent State.
“I was a little nervous because of the unknown, but I was blessed enough to sign with a team like the Patriots,” King told ProFootballNetwork.com‘s Aaron Wilson. “I’m thankful for the opportunity. It was an exciting time. I talked to [director of player personnel] Matt Groh, and he was excited. I’m thankful for the opportunity. He told me I’ll do a little bit of everything — receiver, quarterback, running back — whatever I can do to stick.
“Absolutely, definitely motivated to prove my worth. I’m just excited to play football, period. I’m definitely motivated, and you have a chip on your shoulder, whether you get drafted or not. I’ve played quarterback my whole life, but I think I can be a pretty good receiver as well.”
King also said he’d embrace the opportunity to take a role on special teams. New England is looking for a kick and punt returner after they saw Gunner Olszewski and Brandon Bolden leave during the offseason. But it’s more likely King ends up in coverage or as a blocker, with the Patriots adding electric returners Marcus Jones in the draft and Ty Montgomery in free agency. Competition will be tough. Even if versatility is valuable, King will need to find at least one role where he shows serious potential.
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