The New England Patriots don’t need Tyquan Thornton to contribute in 2022 and that — more than any other reason — is why he’s likely to spend most of the year as the team’s fifth receiver on the depth chart.
The Patriots traded up to pick Thornton in Round 2 — a move that surprised many — but that doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll make his mark on the offense during his rookie season. The truth is that rookie receivers rarely contribute meaningfully in their first year in New England under Bill Belichick. And this year, more than ever, Thornton will have a hard time ascending the depth chart.
New England is entering a season where they have Jakobi Meyers, a reliable slot option who has proven he can produce. They also have players entering their second year in the offense after signing in free agency: Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor. And then there’s the recent acquisition of receiver DeVante Parker, who joined the Patriots in a trade this offseason. The Patriots are also likely going to use a solid amount of 2-RB and 2-TE sets. Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry will be big parts of the offense. James White is returning from an injury and Rhamondre Stevenson excelled as a pass-catcher. New England has no shortage of weapons.
