Patriots Wide Receiver position becomes even more complicated before the 2018 season.
We take a look at the Patriots wide receivers, and how they'll be involved with the team next season.
The Big Three:
Julian Edelman: The Patriots clear cut #1 wide receiver, but he'll miss the first four games of the season due to a PED suspension. When healthy, Edelman is one of the top receivers in the NFL, and will record over 1,000 yards. Although missing the first four games is definitely not a good thing, the Patriots know how to survive a suspension. If they could win the Super Bowl in 2016 after Tom Brady was suspended for the first four games, they can certainly do it with Edelman out. It could also be a blessing in disguise as Edelman missed all of last year with an ACL tear, and a little extra rest could get him back to 100%.
Chris Hogan: The former college lacrosse player is extremely tough, and has averaged over 13 yards per reception over his career. While saying that though, he will be forced to be the top wide receiver in the first four weeks of the season, something he's never had to deal with before. He has the trust of Tom Brady though, and will be the deep threat for the Patriots, if he stays healthy, all season long.
Eric Decker: The addition of Decker changes everything. Yes, I know that his 1,000 yard years are of the past, but don't be surprised if he get 600 plus yards, and five touchdowns. Patriots fans loved Danny Amendola, and they're practically getting a replica of him. He is 31 though, and in his ninth NFL season.
The Best of the Rest:
Kenny Britt: In 2016, Britt did record 1,000 yards receiving, but in his twelve games last year he totaled only 256. Don't expect him to get much over 30 catches next year.
Malcolm Mitchell: After a 2016 season in which he showed a ton of potential, Mitchell missed all of last year with a knee injury. He's really a shot in the dark production wise.
Phillip Dorsett: Apparently had a great training camp, but wasn't even targeted twenty times last year. Unfortunately for him, that number won't grow all that much this year.
Braxton Berrios: The rookie sixth round pick will get his looks playing in the slot. He's willing to take a beating down the middle, but with that and his small frame come injuries.