Patriots News: Julian Edelman expected to be ready by training camp
New England Patriots news is positive once again, as wide receiver Julian Edelman is expected to be ready for training camp.
New England Patriots news was positive last week when offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels spurned the Indianapolis Colts to remain with the organization. Now, there is even more positive news in regards to wide receiver, Julian Edelman.
Edelman missed the entire 2017 because of a torn ACL suffered in August. Not having him on the field hurt the Patriots offense throughout the season.
As a trusted slot receiver, Edelman is normally Tom Brady‘s security blanket. Without him, the Patriots third-down efficiency slipped this season. Replacing 98 receptions, 1,106 yards and three touchdowns is not an easy task.
Despite missing him, the Patriots offense made things work. Brady played outstanding football, taking home the MVP award. The addition of Brandin Cooks helped offset Edelman’s loss, but fans wonder how dominant they could have been with both of them. Trying to stop Edelman and Rob Gronkowski over the middle is something that would drive opposing defensive coordinators nuts.
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Luckily for the Patriots, and unfortunately for their opponents, that is on track to happen. According to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald, Edelman is on track to return to the team this offseason.
"After tearing his ACL in August, Edelman again figures to be Brady’s main man in 2018. He is expected to be ready by training camp."
That is excellent news for the Patriots. With Edelman back in the lineup, this group of receivers and tight ends could be one of the best in the NFL. Cooks is a dynamic deep threat, while Chris Hogan has developed into a consistent, productive receiver in his own right. Add in Gronkowski and Edelman, and the Patriots offense should be one of the best in the league once again in 2018.
Danny Amendola is a free agent this offseason, but the Patriots could bring him back as insurance. It would make sense given the injury concerns of the group. Cooks was the only wide receiver to appear in all the Patriots 16 regular season and three postseason games this season.
New England also has Philip Dorsett, acquired from the Indianapolis Colts for Jacoby Brissett, and Kenny Britt to round out the depth chart. The Patriots are also hoping that Malcolm Mitchell, who also missed 2017 with a knee injury, can return healthy and help out.
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The Patriots wide receiver room could be quite talented in 2018 if things go according to plan. Brady looks like he will have his full allotment of weapons, which is bad news for the rest of the NFL.