Nearly forgotten Patriots receiver establishes secret weapon role this season

From what was seen during the offseason, it appeared DeMario Douglas was dwindling in the revamped Patriots offense under Josh McDaniels, despite how good he had been for the team over the last few years. That wasn't the initial thought when the offensive coordinator returned to New England, though, as he is known for using slot receivers to the fullest.

So there was a lot of optimism that Douglas could become a vital weapon for Drake Maye again this year, only for his lack of inclusion throughout training camp to seemingly lower those chances.

Fortunately, the rise of Kayshon Boutte and Stefon Diggs has made the Patriots offense a legitimate threat again, allowing Douglas to establish a new role he has never played before.

Because defenses are more concerned with covering his teammates, it has allowed Douglas to make explosive plays for big yardage and touchdowns, making him an immediate secret weapon for Maye to take advantage of. That might be what we continue to see from the receiver, and based on what we've seen through the first eight games, that might be the best way to use Douglas moving forward.

DeMario Douglas has carved out a new role for himself on the Patriots offense

Although his stat line in 2025 is far from impressive, Douglas has forced himself into a new role on the Patriots' offense, making him a valuable asset for Maye. A tough start to the season seems to have motivated the 24-year-old, and he continues to stack impressive performances that prove he's crucial to what the team is trying to accomplish.

That was on full display against the Saints, with back-to-back standout drives from the offense that ended with a touchdown by Douglas, even if the second one was shockingly and wrongfully called back by officials.

He has followed that up with another notable showing against the Titans, which even had Diggs excited during the game.

We saw even more incredible play from Douglas against the Browns this past Sunday, as Maye is able to use him against an unprepared defense that eases up on their defense of the receiver in favor of his teammates.

That appears to be the role that Douglas will thrive most in this year, which is very similar to previous slot receivers that McDaniels has worked with in years past. It's far from what he has been for the offense over the last three years, as he was vying for that WR1 spot that has been missing in New England.

However, Douglas' team first attitude and optimism, along with his willingness to do whatever he's asked to help the team win, will continue to take him, and the offense, far.