New England Patriots 53-man 2018 Full Roster Projection v1.0
By Hal Bent
TIGHT END/FULLBACK: (4)
Starter: Rob Gronkowski
Back-up(s): James Develin, Troy Niklas, Jacob Hollister
Roster Bubble Boy(s): Dwayne Allen, Will Tye, Ryan Izzo, Shane Wimann
Youth and athleticism lead the projection for the roster spots behind Gronkowski. Tye and Allen are known quantities and neither is going to contribute much in the passing game. A step forward in training camp by Hollister could add a mid-range receiving threat in the “joker” tight end role.
Niklas is talented as a blocker and has more receiving skills than Allen and has a chance to open some eyes with a fresh start in New England.
WIDE RECEIVER: (7)
Starter(s): Julian Edelman, Chris Hogan, Jordan Matthews
Back-up(s): Malcolm Mitchell, Kenny Britt, Cordarrelle Patterson, Matthew Slater
Roster Bubble Boy(s): Phillip Dorsett, Cody Hollister, Braxton Berrios, Riley McCarron
Edelman, Hogan and Matthews should be locks. At this juncture of the preseason, I have Britt beating out Dorsett and Mitchell also fighting off competition to make the squad. However, health and knowledge of the offense and potential role is going to be a big part of making the squad at this deep position.
Patterson and Slater should make the squad based on special teams play. The pending PED suspension for Edelman may open another spot for the first four weeks for Dorsett. Berrios at this projection does not crack the roster and will have to be snuck to the practice squad with an on the 2019 roster.