4 potential breakout stars on the Patriots for the 2023 season

Demario Douglas

On the offensive side of the team, the most excitement appears to be for rookie wide receiver Demario Douglas.

Although most wanted Belichick to draft a receiver higher than the sixth round, where both Douglas and Kayshon Boutte were taken, the way the pair have practiced and performed in preseason games removes nearly all the "What ifs?" remaining from the draft.

It was evident that Douglas exceeded all expectations early on, as he saw limited action during the preseason, seemingly securing a roster spot far earlier than anticipated.

His quickness, athleticism, and natural elusiveness skyrocketed him to the top of breakout candidates for the upcoming season, with even NFL Network's Peter Schrager listing him as one of the top ten breakout candidates in the league for 2023.

Along with fellow rookie receiver Boutte, Douglas has an incredible opportunity to take advantage of as the Patriots hope to rebound after an unfavorable offensive performance last year. With Mac Jones needing to take control of the offense and lead the charge to a better year, Douglas can be a secret weapon of sorts that opposing defenses have trouble preparing for.

He's proven to be a vital piece to the team throughout the summer, so now he will need to take it to the next level during the regular season and showcase exactly what makes him so special.