Examining New England Patriots rookies snap counts through Week 3

4. Malcolm Mitchell (4th round pick)

Total snaps: 87

Percentage of total offensive snaps: 40.47%

Week 1 snaps: 39

Week 2 snaps: 31

Week 3 snaps: 17

In those 87 snaps, Malcolm Mitchell has caught four passes for 75 yards. It seems like whenever the Georgia product gets his hands on the ball, some kind of magic happens; against the Texans, Mitchell caught a hitch and shook off two tackles before finally being dragged down on the sideline. It was a nice play by the rookie.

Of course, there are so many weapons in the offense, it’s hard to see Mitchell becoming a major factor in the aerial attack unless injuries become an issue. Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola and Chris Hogan have all out-snapped Mitchell, who also competes with tight ends Martellus Bennett and Rob Gronkowski for targets.

However, it looks like the Patriots got a gem in the fourth round by picking Mitchell. At times, he was undoubtedly the best wide receiver in the SEC during his Georgia days.

Next: 3. Ted Karras