The New England Patriots have locked up a familiar receiving target for young quarterback Mac Jones, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport on Wednesday.
The Patriots reportedly agreed to terms with veteran wideout DeVante Parker on a three-year deal worth up to $33 million with $14 million in guarantees.
The eight-year veteran was acquired via trade with the Miami Dolphins prior to last season along with a 2023 fifth-round pick in exchange for a 2023 third-round pick.
In his first season with the Patriots, the 6'3" target posted modest production, hauling in 31 receptions for 539 yards and three touchdowns in 13 games.
In free agency, New England added veteran receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster and tight end Mike Gesicki, a pair of pass catchers who excel on intermediate routes, while Parker is more of a deep-ball threat. 2022 second-round pick Tyquan Thornton as well as veteran receiver Kendrick Bourne will round out a solid pass-catching group for new offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien, who’s returning to New England after making a name for himself as part of the team’s offensive staff from 2007–11.
The former Louisville standout has made 369 receptions for 5,266 yards and 27 touchdowns in 106 games in the NFL.
