Getting depth at wide receiver
Getting depth at the wide receiver position will be crucial for Bill Belichick moving forward. The Patriots still have a reliable receiver in Julian Edelman, but beyond that there isn’t much depth to be found.
New England will be looking for second-year wideout N’keal Harry to have a breakout year. Jacoby Myers also figures to be a part of the equation as well. Beyond that, there is not a ton of depth. The challenge for Bill Belichick this offseason will be to try and see if he can grab a playmaking receiver, whether it be the draft or by other means.
The lack of depth showed itself a bit last year. There were glimpses of what the wide receiver group could do, but many on the unit were extremely young and raw. Edelman is a reliable target for any quarterback to throw to. He recorded 100 receptions and 1,117 receiving yards last season. His six touchdowns matched a career-high. There is no doubt that he will be a huge part of the equation moving forward. However, Edelman is 33 years old and has taken a lot of hits. It will be difficult for the next Patriots quarterback to rely solely on him.
The challenge for Bill Belichick heading into the draft would be to find a playmaking receiver who can start right away. This is not a position where New England and Bill Belichick can afford to wait any longer. He needs to make sure that adds somebody to this offense that can come in and contribute instantly.