New England Patriots training camp: 4 standouts after 4 days of practice

Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

3. Aaron Dobson

Here we have a veteran wide receiver that has endured a rocky start to his career. Dobson appeared in just four games last season, catching three passes for 38 yards and no touchdowns. But it looks like the Marshall product is well on his way to a rebound season.

Doug Kyed of NESN.com had this to say after Dobson finished another solid day of training camp:

"There’s a front-runner for the New England Patriots’ No. 4 receiver role. Aaron Dobson has made a positive impression through four days of training camp after a lost sophomore season. Dobson made the best play of the day Sunday, when he leaped in the air and caught a pass over Malcolm Butler during 11-on-11 drills from Tom Brady. Butler had great coverage, but Dobson made the better play. Dobson has been a dependable receiver throughout camp for Brady and backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. He appears to have taken a giant leap since his rookie season and is making the most of his opportunities with Brandon LaFell out injured."

Dobson did fumble during Saturday’s practice, but the quickness with which he responded to that mistake was impressive. Patriots fans remember how many mistakes Dobson made as a rookie; if he is making fewer, and recovering from them well, then he deserves another chance at the 53-man roster.

Don’t expect Dobson to take LaFell’s job as the No. 2 receiver, but the chance is there for the third-year man to make regular contributions as the No. 4 guy.

Next: 2. Malcolm Butler