2019 NFL Mock Draft: Cowboys turn the page, Raiders find pass rushers
By Randy Gurzi
18. New England Patriots: Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
There’s drama early on for the New England Patriots and they’re struggling early. Yes, they’ve had slow Septembers before and eventually get things right. And yes, they will likely do the same thing this season. With that being said, they’re hurting at wide receiver and it’s showing.
After getting more than 1,000 yards from Brandin Cooks, the Patriots traded him to the Los Angeles Rams and were banking on going back to their group slot receivers that they love. Unfortunately, their top pass catcher, Julian Edelman, was suspended for four games and without him, defenses have zeroed in on tight end Rob Gronkowski as the only real threat in the passing game.
Gronkowski’s brother came out and said the star tight end was frustrated with the lack of help he’s receiving from other offensive players. Of course, this was followed by Gronk saying he never said that — which means he probably did. And he has every right to be annoyed.
The Pats finally go for a wide receiver early in the draft to open the offense some and the player they land is Deebo Samuel out of South Carolina. He fits the team’s mold as he’s an excellent route runner who can excel in their precision offense. He’s also extremely explosive and can help in the return game as well.