Patriots kickoff 2016: A look at Devin Lucien
The New England Patriots open 2016 in 16 days, so we’re profiling the owner of the No. 16 jersey, undrafted rookie wide receiver Devin Lucien.
Size: 6-foot-2, 195 pounds
College: Arizona State
NFL experience: Rookie
Signed by the Patriots as an undrafted free agent following this past spring’s draft, Lucien is actually the second-tallest member of the Patriots’ group of wide receivers right now, standing just an inch below Aaron Dobson. Through the first month of practices, it looks pretty doubtful that Lucien will crack the final roster, but there could be a spot waiting for him on the practice squad.
3 ripple effects of Nate Washington release
What you should know about Lucien is that he just might have the best pair of hands out of the entire 2016 draft class. According to Pro Football Focus, Lucien dropped just three passes on 98 targets in 2015 and only two passes in 2014. The guy has magnetic hands, and it shows regardless of how well the ball is thrown; Lucien has displayed a knack for making jaw-dropping catches.
Recent installments in Patriots kickoff countdown profile series:
18 days – No. 18 Matthew Slater
19 days – No. 19 Malcolm Mitchell
What isn’t so great about Lucien is his lack of speed, which will certainly hinder him at the pro level. Furthermore, Lucien isn’t always the best at getting clear separation at the line of scrimmage; some added time in the weight room could go a long way toward improving in this area, especially against strong AFC East cornerbacks like Byron Maxwell, Ronald Darby and Darrelle Revis.
3 ripple effects of Bear Pascoe release
In closing, don’t expect Lucien to make the final roster by any means. Even the practice squad could be a bit of a stretch; we’ll know for sure where Lucien will end up by the time the next few preseason games have been played.
Next: 3 ripple effects of Bryan Stork release
Tomorrow marks 15 days until the Patriots open 2016, so be sure to stop by Musket Fire as we profile the owner of the No. 15 jersey, wide receiver Chris Hogan.