The New England Patriots have had one of the worst wide receiver groups in the NFL for several years now, but JuJu Smith-Schuster seems very confident that issue has been addressed.
Smith-Schuster told reporters at the start of OTAs on Monday that he believes the Patriots’ wide receiver corps is “stacked.” The veteran thinks drafting two rookies at the position will have a big impact.
Smith-Schuster had just 29 catches in 11 games last season. He dealt with a knee injury in training camp and said he was never back at full strength during the year. That is a big reason why he feels more confident in himself heading into his second year with the Patriots.
The Patriots drafted former Washington wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk early in the second round. They then took former UCF receiver Javon Baker in the fourth round. Even if both players play a significant role as rookies (which is highly unlikely), we doubt anyone other than Smith-Schuster will describe New England’s wide receiver group as “stacked.”
DeMario Douglas was the Patriots’ leading wide receiver last season with just 561 yards. A lot of people want to blame that on poor quarterback play from Mac Jones, but there has been a major talent void at wideout for years now in New England. Time will tell if a healthy Smith-Schuster can help fill it.
