The New England Patriots will take on the Jacksonville Jaguars across the pond in London on Sunday.
The Jaguars have been struggling this season, but there have been a few bright spots on their roster. One of those bright spots has been rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.
He is my pick for this week’s Gimme Him.
The LSU product has burst onto the scene as the Jaguars’ leading wideout through the first six games with 25 receptions for 474 yards and three touchdowns. His receiving yards total puts him at ninth-best in the NFL.
One of the best games of the season for him so far came against the Indianapolis Colts on October 6. He caught eight passes for 122 yards and a touchdown.
He is quickly becoming one of the Jaguars’ most dynamic receiving options. The first-round draft pick out of LSU is using his combination of big-play ability and speed to make things happen after the catch. He has averaged over nine yards per catch in each of the games he has played in this year.
The Patriots’ group of wide receivers is taking shape by the week. Coach Jerod Mayo noted that Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte are three of the most reliable receivers on the roster right now. The addition of Thomas would give quarterback Drake Maye another weapon on offense.
One of the best things the organization can do is surround the rookie quarterback with playmakers. Thomas undoubtedly fits into that category, even as a rookie. In addition to just playmaking ability, he would also give the organization depth at the wide receiver spot. Productive depth is not something they have right now. Thomas would be able to fill a void there.
As for now, the Patriots’ secondary will be tasked with guarding him on Sunday, when they go head-to-head with the Jaguars.
