Patriots may have hit the jackpot with two late-round picks
Most assumed the Patriots would be heavily invested in acquiring top-talent offensive players in this year’s draft, particularly wide receivers, as it was clearly the weaker part of the team. But in true Bill Belichick form, they did the complete opposite, waiting to add to the offense until the later rounds on day three.
After loading up on offensive linemen in rounds four and five, New England fans finally got what they were hoping for; a pair of wide receivers taken in the sixth round, with one of them being noted as a potential steal.
It may have been far later in the draft than desired, but the Patriots got two unique prospects in Kayshon Boutte and Demario Douglas.
Who is Kayshon Boutte?
With pick 187 in the 2023 draft, the Patriots selected Kayshon Boutte from LSU, a former five-star recruit with a track and field background. He was once considered a first-round prospect in this year’s class, making the Patriots pick a potential low-risk, high-reward candidate.
Because of struggles on the field during the 2022 season, reportedly due to some issues stemming from his relationship with the new coaching staff, his stock plummeted. His former coach has since spoken highly of the progress he saw in Boutte after their rocky start, however, leaving hope that the “off-field issues” are in the past.
It also didn’t help that he tested poorly at the combine last month, seemingly erasing any hope of regaining the first-round projection he previously earned.
Despite the negatives working against him, Boutte is still a quality talent for Bill Belichick to work with. His 2021 performance skyrocketed him to the top of the class, totaling 38 catches for 509 yards and nine touchdowns in just six games that year.
His athleticism is the most discussed aspect of his game, with “NFL starting skills” and a super high ceiling. If he can revert to his sophomore production, he could be an absolute steal in the sixth round.
Boutte wouldn’t be the first player Belichick has brought in with alleged “attitude concerns,” nor will he be the last. The coach has had success with players stamped with this label, which creates more optimism that Boutte can reach his full potential with the coaching in New England.
Who is Demario Douglas?
With the 210th pick in the 2023 NFL draft, the Patriots selected Demario Douglas from Liberty University, an undersized yet explosive receiver with the versatility to match. At five-foot-eight and 179 pounds, he brings a different skill set to New England than what is currently on the roster.
Throughout his four years in college, Douglas became known for his speed, quickness, and incredible success in creating separation. He had the best year of his career during the 2022 season, totaling 79 catches for 993 yards and six touchdowns in 13 games while adding five rushes for 105 yards and a touchdown to his resume that year.
But one of the best parts about him? He’s not just a dual-threat player; he’s a triple threat.
On top of his success playing on offense, Douglas also has established himself as a standout returner on special teams, returning two punts for touchdowns for over 70 yards each in 2020 and 2021.
His versatility will be utilized as the Patriots rebuild and reestablish their team, potentially taking on a similar role to another unique player in Marcus Jones, who Douglas shared he’s modeled his game after.
It’s clear Belichick and Co. liked what they saw from Douglas when working with him at the East-West Shrine Bowl, despite experts’ concerns regarding his size. As the Patriots work to create a new identity, especially offensively, Douglas’ dynamic skillset could become an integral part of what they’re trying to be moving forward.