Patriots Rookie Demario Douglas Sees National Hype As ‘Breakout’ Star

The New England Patriots got a bunch of new players in the offseason and experts have high expectations from most of them. Peter Schrager from Good Morning Football shared his list of breakout players and Patriots rookie Demario Douglas is definitely one of them.

The Patriots selected Douglas in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft and he gave his best shot in training camp.

“He had four different quarterbacks at Liberty, including Malik Willis, and still put up monster numbers in every one of those offensive seasons,” Schrager said. “The Patriots coaching staff had him in the East-West Shrine Game and they were like, ‘Keep that quiet.’ Drafted him in the sixth round, the track star that he is. … Liberty churns out stars, guys.”

It was not a monster performance, but Douglas showed some great moves. During his time at Liberty, the Patriots rookie delivered 2,193 yards receiving on 171 catches to go along with 16 touchdowns. Douglas had a 4.44 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and showed an 11-foot-2-inch broad jump. He may not have the desired frame, but head coach Bill Belichick had a few good reasons to get him.

It’s not fair! Demario Cooks Myles Bryant pic.twitter.com/UNC3XY0gZZ

— pats camp (@patscampvids) August 8, 2023

“I always been doubted, from when I was young, especially coming out of a little awkward, stuff like that,” Douglas said in July. “Had coaches like, ‘You kinda short.’ I play with a chip on my shoulder. But I always come out and feel like I am the same height as everybody when I am on the field. I feel like I can play with anybody.”

Patriots trusted Douglas for a reason

The Patriots will have to find a good role for Douglas and he will probably have a big say in the offensive end of the game.

“Look at that wide receivers room, where does he fit in?” Schrager said. “Keep an eye on him. What is the expectation? 100 catches? No. But if you’re going to be watching the Patriots, just know that, Pop Douglas is going to be part of the offensive game plan. They’ve been keeping him quiet a little bit, he’s had great practices. Maybe not a national name yet and he’s certainly not being drafted in your fantasy leagues. But Pop Douglas, No. 5.”