Patriots Linked to Free-Agent and Former Pro-Bowl Wide Receiver

The New England Patriots will add more weapons to the roster, and this wide receiver seems like a good opportunity. The team had an undrafted free agent WR in for a workout. In other words, they are trying to bring in more power at this position. Several veterans will be available on the free agent market and one of them is a former Pro-Bowler and Super Bowl champion.

Jake Fill of Bleacher Report discussed the Patriots’ plan to add depth and playmakers at the receiving unit. Former New York Giants and Detroit Lions receiver Golden Tate may be the best player to join the team right now.

Here’s what he wrote:

“The Patriots are heading into the 2021 season with Agholor as their top wide receiver. If he builds off his career year in 2020, New England will be in good shape. But what if the 28-year-old doesn’t match that level of production? There isn’t a ton of experience in the Pats’ receiving corps, and N’Keal Harry could even be traded or cut before Week 1. That’s why New England should consider signing a receiver such as Golden Tate, who remains one of the best available unsigned playmakers. 

“Tate turns 33 next week, and he didn’t have a great showing in 2020. In 12 games with the New York Giants, he had 35 receptions for 388 yards (his lowest total since 2011) and two touchdowns. But he could still have some gas left in the tank, especially if he joins an offense where he wouldn’t be the first or even second option in the passing game. It may not be a huge signing, but the Notre Dame product could provide valuable depth and reliability. If Cam Newton starts at quarterback, he’d likely benefit from having as many weapons as possible while trying to have a bounce-back year. If Mac Jones starts, the rookie could lean on Tate as an experienced playmaker. Plus, Tate likely wouldn’t come at a high cost. So there could be a potential fit for the 11-year veteran in New England.”

Tate isn’t the only option for the Patriots at wide receiver

Tate wasn’t really productive in 2020. Moreover, it was the worst season in his career. He played in 12 games in 2020 and stacked 35 receptions for 388 yards and a couple of touchdowns.

Head coach Bill Belichick would never bring Tate to New England and force him to be responsible for most of the game. He wouldn’t be a top option for the team. But, if the Patriots are interested in his service, his experience will be of great importance for Gunner Olszewski, Isaiah Zuber, and Tre Nixon.

There’s another side of the story. Tate isn’t the only option for the Patriots at receiver right now. Some of these players are already on the roster. Zuber was great in practice, OTAs, and minicamp. He was also great during his brief appearances last season.