New England Patriots: Danny Amendola is delivering yet again

New England Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola has really stepped up so far this season for the offense.

A season that started with the loss of star receiver Julian Edelman brewed trouble for the New England Patriots offense. But through five weeks, the Patriots turned to 31-year old Danny Amendola to help fill the void. So far, he has answered the bell.

Amendola is in his fifth season in New England, filled with ups and downs along with an assortment of injuries. When he arrived in 2013, he was deemed to takeover the ‘Wes Welker’ role. The role was soon taken over by Julian Edelman, but Amendola hung around and proved his value when it mattered.

Besides making big play after big play in the playoffs and in Super Bowls, Amendola is having one of his best seasons in New England. Through five weeks, Amendola is tied for second on the Patriots with 23 catches, even after missing the Week 2 game against New Orleans.

The high level of play sparked comment from his quarterback in Brady’s Wednesday press conference, calling Amendola “uncoverable.” Here’s what Brady had to say via Zack Cox of NESE.com

"“He’s had such a great year,” Brady said. “I can’t say enough good things about Danny and everything he’s meant to our offense. He’s so tough. To me, he’s uncoverable. You turn on the tape, and he’s getting away from people. No matter what the route, no matter who’s on him, no matter what’s called, leverage, distance of the route — he’s just been so great for us this year.“And I’m going to try to keep finding him. Because when you have that kind of trust, and you see it play after play after play — you’re the quarterback. You’ve got one ball. You throw it to the guy who’s open, and Danny’s always finding a way to get open.”"

Amendola’s 23 catches already equal his total from last season, catching all but four passes Brady has thrown his way. His 267 receiving yards put him on pace for a new career-high. He has also made key plays blocking in the run game and has provided a consistent punt returner.

The overall production from the wideout even had Bill Belichick complementing his game, calling Amendola “one of our most dependable players since he’s been here…”

Last week against Tampa Bay, Brady looked Amendola’s way eight times, connecting on all eight passes for 77 yards, three resulting in first downs. That continued a trend this season, as Brady has looked Amendola’s way on ten third and fourth down plays. Amendola caught nine of those passes, converting eight into first downs (one for a touchdown).

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Amendola’s quickness and ability to get open have made him a perfect fit for Josh McDaniels and the Patriots offense. He should continue to play a vital role in the passing offense going forward while making a number of clutch plays.