New England Patriots: Five Breakout Candidates for 2015
5. Danny Amendola, WR
Dec 14, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola (80) carries the ball during the second half against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots won 41-13. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Along with Edelman, the Patriots brought in Amendola to try and replace the void left by the departing Welker in 2013. While Edelman immediately emerged into an extremely productive player, Amendola struggled to stay healthy and did not seem to have a strong rapport with Brady. His first season was a complete bust in New England, and many thought the Patriots made a mistake in bringing him in.
Last season, Amendola struggled to become an important part of the offense once again. His 27 receptions for 200 yards and one touchdown through the 2014 regular season was even less impressive than his disappointing debut year with the Patriots.
That being said, something relatively unexpected happen with Amendola during the Patriots’ playoff run. He all of a sudden became an important part of the offense. The Patriots started running more three wide receiver sets featuring Edelman, Brandon LaFell and Amendola. His increase in playing time included a sharp increase in targets, and Amendola made the most out of his opportunity.
In the Divisional Round against the Baltimore Ravens, Amendola collected five receptions on six targets for 81 yards and two touchdowns. He was not very effective in the AFC Championship Game against the Indianapolis Colts, but his five receptions for 48 yards and a touchdown in the Super Bowl were certainly important for the Patriots to walk away with a title.
The Patriots’ offense is difficult to learn, so it is not too surprising to see Amendola take some time to get acclimated. That being said, he started to show a great rapport with Brady down the stretch, and the legendary quarterback seem to legitimately trust him in the most important part of the season.
Amendola is still a very talented player who is finally seems to be ready to breakout this season. I am not necessarily predicting a Pro Bowl caliber season, but I think Amendola will be an important part of the Patriots’ offense.
Next: Number Four