The Patriots are thin at the wide receiver position entering the new season. Luckily, there are some intriguing options on the free-agent market.
On the latest Next Pats Podcast, NBC Sports Boston's Patriots insider Phil Perry breaks down three potential fits in New England. These three receivers would especially be useful in the slot, saving soon-to-be 33-year-old Julian Edelman from the constant hits that come with playing the position.
Here are the names that stand out:
1. Jamison Crowder
Other than a 2018 season plagued by injuries, Crowder was one of the Redskins' most reliable targets during his four years in Washington. That especially goes for 2016, when Crowder racked up 847 yards and seven touchdowns.
Perry chatted with Redskins insider for NBC Sports Washington JP Finlay, who believes Crowder would be a perfect fit in New England.
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"He could be a Patriot," said Finlay. "He's a great guy, really focused, there's no off-field stuff. You could talk to Ike Hilliard the 'Skins receivers coach, they love him. Jay Gruden loves him. Every quarterback that's worked with him loves him. He works hard, pushes hard in practice. I don't think there would be any possible issues there."
2. Adam Humphries
Humphries enters the free-agent market after four seasons in Tampa Bay. The 26-year-old is coming off a 2018 campaign in which he posted career highs in receiving yards (816) and touchdowns (five).
Perry and Buccaneers beat writer for The Pewter Report Trevor Sikkema discussed Humphries as a possible option for the Patriots.
"Over the last two years, Bucs fans have said 'Hey, if Adam Humphries was in New England, he'd be a 1,000-yard receiver," Sikkema said. "It's a little bit of a stereotype, but it's true. That's the way that they use a lot of their receivers, and that's the kind of game that Adam Humphries plays."
3. Cole Beasley
Beasley, entering his age 30 season, has spent seven years as a reliable slot receiver in Dallas. Perhaps the veteran's best attribute is his durability, as he's missed only one game in the last five seasons.
Crowder and Humphries may be the more attractive options, but Beasley has appeared to be an obvious fit in New England for years, and his experience in the slot undoubtedly would be welcome on a team that needs depth at the position.
Listen to the full episode below:
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