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4 of the receivers the Patriots could take in the first-round

By Sara Marshall

Nov 26, 2022; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Boston College Eagles wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) signals first down after a catch against the Syracuse Orange during the second half at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2022; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Boston College Eagles wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) signals first down after a catch against the Syracuse Orange during the second half at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Breakdown of the Patriots’ potential first-round pick: receivers

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 01: Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Ohio State Buckeyes looks to the bench during a 48-45 win over the Utah Utes at Rose Bowl on January 01, 2022 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 01: Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Ohio State Buckeyes looks to the bench during a 48-45 win over the Utah Utes at Rose Bowl on January 01, 2022 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Ohio State

AGE: 21

HEIGHT: 6’0″

WEIGHT: 198 LBS

2022 stats: 3 games – 5 receptions for 43 yards (hamstring injury)
2021 stats: 13 games – 95 receptions for 1,606 yards, 9 touchdowns, 16.9 Y/C

With the future of Jakobi Meyers still unknown, Belichick may look to replace him with one of the top slot receivers of the class. Smith-Njigba has built quite an astounding resume during his time at Ohio State, particularly during his sophomore season.

Despite sitting behind future Jets receiver Garrett Wilson and future Saints receiver Chris Olave in 2021, he broke multiple school and Big Ten records for his outstanding season.

But his stats were not the only impressive part of his performance. Smith-Njigba would instantly become Mac Jones’ favorite target, as he totaled a 141.8 QB rating when targeted during his sophomore season as well.

Smith-Njigba has a unique ability to break free of defenders and get consistently open for the quarterback. It would be a significant asset for New England’s offense as they try to bounce back from an underwhelming season last year. He may become unavailable when the Patriots’ pick comes around, but if he’s still on the board, he would be tough to pass on.

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