A Receiver for the Ages: Patriots Land Four-Time 1,000 Yard Catcher to Pair with Drake Maye

Drake Maye is the future, but it’s up to the New England Patriots to maximize that future by putting some weapons around him.

It’s remarkable that Maye had any success as a rookie while throwing primarily to Demario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, and Hunter Henry. But for the 22-year-old quarterback to take a leap in year two, he’s going to need more reliable pass-catchers.

The Patriots’ top target this offseason is likely Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals. However, Cincinnati may use the franchise tag to retain the five-year veteran, and if he hits the open market, the Washington Commanders might offer a more appealing destination.

That leaves New England looking for a backup option, and as far as those go, nabbing a receiver with four 1,000-yard seasons and a Pro Bowl nomination under his belt wouldn’t be the worst way to go.