Newest Patriots receiver stands out at training camp
Although it has only been two days of Patriots training camp thus far, the newest receiver has already caught the eye of fans and media alike.
There are always overreactions when training camp begins with any team; some players look incredible while others may not.
While most of the time those assumptions don’t hold much weight, there are times when what you’re seeing is in fact what you’ll get with said players.
As the newest Patriots receiver on the field, DeVante Parker has a lot of eyes on him. Many hope he will become the team’s long-awaited WR1 and based on the first two practices of the week, his performance appears to be trending that way.
Parker dominated headlines after Wednesday’s first practice and that continued once again on day two. The chemistry between him and Mac Jones is already apparent, and Parker may just be the missing piece this offense has been needing.
The day started with what would be dubbed the “play of the day.” Jones threw a beautiful ball to Parker, who would beat Jalen Mills and toe-tap his way to make the catch for a touchdown.
Mac Jones ➡️ DeVante Parker❗️🚨 #Patriots pic.twitter.com/EhlVFVh7Ev
— PatsPropaganda (@PatsPropaganda) July 28, 2022
Another round of 7-on-7s and Mac Jones goes RIGHT to DeVante Parker for a toe-tap, back-shoulder fade. 5-yard TD. CB Jalen Mills was in coverage -- but couldn't really do anything to stop the play.
— Henry McKenna (@McKennAnalysis) July 28, 2022
Jones and Parker have developed trust in short time.
In just a couple of short days, Parker has demonstrated what makes him the perfect addition to New England. His contested catch abilities have been a highlight so far and are likely the skills the Patriots had hoped to get out of their now former first-round pick, N’Keal Harry.
Plus, it doesn’t hurt how much Parker is enjoying his time in Foxboro so far.
Video: DeVante Parker on the atmosphere/crowds at Patriots training camp, which is a welcomed change entering his eighth NFL season. pic.twitter.com/FdwX3pWbRa
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) July 28, 2022
The rest of the offense has spoken highly of their new teammate, particularly Hunter Henry on Thursday:
Hunter Henry says the addition of DeVante Parker “takes a little pressure off everybody.”
— Henry McKenna (@McKennAnalysis) July 27, 2022
Considering Parker’s size and potential impact in the red zone, the WR should help Henry A LOT in the red zone. pic.twitter.com/v47U0VEONc
With Henry becoming Jones’ favorite red zone target last season, the addition of another scoring threat in Parker will be a huge benefit for the entirety of the team.
The biggest worry going forward would be Parker’s health. Throughout his career, he has dealt with the injury bug a lot. But when healthy, he can be a dominant fixture on any offense. If he can remain in good health this season, Parker could easily become Jones’ new favorite target.