5 New England Patriots players to watch in Week 2

Patriots Players to Watch in Week 2: Martellus Bennett

Last but not least, Martellus Bennett is a top Patriots player to watch in Week 2, regardless of whether or not Gronk returns to the lineup.

As evidenced by his being on the field for 97 percent of offense snaps against the Cardinals, Bennett has gained the Patriots’ full confidence. He did an excellent job sealing the edge on runs, and he made himself available for Garoppolo early and often in the passing game.

However, one bummer about Bennett’s Week 1 performance was his stat line of three catches for just 14 yards. Even with Gronk in the lineup, Bennett needs to register more yards than one could count on two hands and one foot.

If Gronk doesn’t play for a second straight game, this writer will be looking for Bennett to put up at least 60 yards receiving. Even with Gronk in the game, Bennett should aim for 40, 50 yards passing. Who knows, maybe wearing a NASA hat in the locker room will take Bennett’s game out of this world (har har).

Next: AFC Power Rankings: Week 2

Stay tuned here on Musket Fire as we bring you fresh points of Patriots analysis leading up to kickoff in Week 2.