Patriots receivers are offended over latest positional rankings

Because the offense has been a continuous problem over the last several years, the Patriots were expected to go all-in on acquiring the top-level talent to not only make their roster competitive but also ensure Drake Maye had a solid cast around him to put him in the best position possible as a rookie and beyond.

That made them the frontrunners in trade proposals throughout most of the offseason, with a connection to Brandon Aiyuk and Tee Higgins continuing into training camp.

While that remains a possibility, even if it does appear to be increasingly unlikely, it was clear the new regime has emphasized improving the offense through the draft and free agency acquisitions despite the primarily unexciting names to join the roster.

They double-dipped on the offensive line and wide receiver in the draft, two much-needed positions to be upgraded, but both rosters still look concerning. Analysts and reporters continue to label them as some of the worst groupings in the league, especially the receiving corps, which the Patriots pass catchers are not too thrilled with ahead of the 2024 season.

DeMario Douglas is not having the Patriots receiving corps being ranked dead last for 2024 season

One of the more shocking evaluations of the team's receiving corps came from Pro Football Focus which ranked the unit 32nd in the league, noting their struggles last season as the basis for their decision. Although they believe they have the potential to be a good roster in a few years, they don't anticipate they'll be very competitive this fall, despite the upgrades made this offseason.

DeMario Douglas mentioned he was aware of the ranking, noting he wasn't too pleased with that conclusion and is determined to use it as fuel for the season ahead.

Perhaps it could be used as bulletin board material for this young and developing offense, who have the potential to be far better than what outlets are projecting them to be.

With Kendrick Bourne back in the fold, a full year under Douglas' belt, and three hungry rookies (Javon Baker, Drake Maye, and Ja'Lynn Polk) impressing throughout the offseason, there is a lot to be optimistic about when looking at the Patriots' future.

Not to mention the return of Hunter Henry, who has been the team's best tight end since Rob Gronkowski, and the addition of dual-threat running back Antonio Gibson, the offense seems to be in better hands than they were just a year ago.

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