Parkin’ It In New England
Henry McKenna
New England’s newest acquisition, WR DeVante Parker, is ready to make a splash in this offense, which was due for a new receiving addition.
Last week, the Patriots traded for standout receiver DeVante Parker from the Miami Dolphins. They sent over a 2023 third-rounder to Miami, and received Parker along with a 2022 fifth-rounder, according to reports. This move comes a couple months before this year’s draft, and this is how things have changed for New England’s offseason thus far.
How The Addition Changes New England’s Draft
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Regarding the upcoming draft, speculation was that the Patriots would be looking to upgrade the receiver position with their first or second round picks. After this transaction, things have changed. Now, what the Patriots should be looking at with especially the first round pick is a speedy linebacker. The addition of DeVante Parker, especially for a cheap price of a third round pick, lessens the need for offensive weapons and lets GM Bill Belichick use those picks to strengthen the defense.
Parker is someone Belichick seems to believe in, and is a huge addition for the roster, and changes how we see the draft now. Additionally, according to reports made by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Parker made it clear to the Dolphins that he wanted to play in New England under Belichick’s scheme.
How The Addition Changes The Offense
Clutchpoints
DeVante Parker being added to the Patriots’ offense is huge, especially for Mac Jones. The most important trait, among others, that Parker will be bringing to the Patriots is physicality. Parker is a very physical receiver, and is very successful on contested throws. This is important as QB Mac Jones develops in his second year. Parker being on the offensive side, with his reputation, also allows for the offense to spread out and have attention shift away from threats such as Nelson Agholor, Kendrick Bourne, and other Patriots weapons who are due for big seasons.
DeVante Parker isn’t necessarily a number one wide receiving option, but I believe is a great addition as the offseason moves on. He is experienced, and when healthy, is dangerous against defensive backs. Parker has had his issues with injuries as of late, but was still a force and consistent target on a struggling Miami offense in the games he played in last year. This acquisition will be something to keep an eye on as New England’s offense moves on from Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels in the 2022-2023 season.
