New England Patriots NFL Draft Analysis for 2014 season and 2015 and Beyond
By Hal Bent
Dec 28, 2013; Tempe, AZ, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Jeremy Gallon (21) against the Kansas State Wildcats during the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Round: 7, Pick: 29 (Overall: 244) Jeremy Gallon, WR, Michigan:
Overview:
With their final draft pick of the 2014 NFL Draft the Patriots selected a wide receiver as they tabbed Michigan’s Jeremy Gallon. Gallon is yet another slot receiver and with Danny Amendola, Julien Edelman, and Josh Boyce ahead of him at the position. Gallon is only five-foot-eight and 183 pounds and will have his work cut out to make the roster.
2014 Role:
Gallon is strictly insurance for an injury epidemic at slot receiver right now on offense, but he may be able to contribute on special teams this year. He has experience as a returner and his small target and elusiveness makes him a candidate for punt and kick return duties.
2015 and Beyond:
Gallon is in a tough spot with his small size and crowded position. Gallon will have to continue to refine his route-running and contribute in the kicking game to continue to stay on the roster.
Similar pick in the past: Jeremy Ebert, WR #235 – 2012
Unfortunately for Gallon, Ebert failed to stick in New England. Fortunately, Ebert has stuck in the NFL as he went to Philadelphia, back to New England and ended up on the Jacksonville roster last season. Ebert was released this spring and has not signed on anywhere at this time. Gallon will need to show he can play on special teams to avoid the same fate.