Rookie Updates

           Rookie Receiver Updates:

   

     Aaron Dobson- Dobson, the 59th overall pick is, in my opinion, just what the Patriots need. What we have been lacking in recent years is a big, physical receiver with the ability to really stretch the field. He has a great combination of speed, height and pure athleticism. He is tall, and has an excellent vertical leap. This, paired with his long arms allows him to get over defenders, even under solid coverage. He wins most of his jump balls, and has extremely good body control. He also has very good positional awareness. Unfortunately, he takes a long time to work up to full speed. When lined up against a large, physical defender, this becomes a problem. He sometimes hesitates at the line, which forces him to lose precision on his routes. These, however are problems that can be solved with some coaching, practice, and experience. I believe he will be able to sort out any kinks in his game by week 1. I expect Aaron Dobson not only to be on the roster, but also fight for the number 2 receiver position, behing recently acquired Danny Amendola. His skills have been described as "raw", but Bill and the rest of the Patriots staff have shown their skill in developing young players. I think Dobson will do just fine in the NFL.

Aaron Dobson

     Josh Boyce- Josh Boyce's skills lie almost completely opposite his fellow rookie Dobson's. Boyce's strong legs allow him to muscle of pressing defenders at the line. It also allows him to hold blocks down the field. Running a sub 4.4 40, he has extremely fast speed in short bursts. He doesn't, however, have breakaway speed that will allow him to stretch the field at an elite level. This, paired with his precise route running ability makes him extremely hard to cover over short distances, and his low center of gravity makes it hard for defenders to get low on him. Boyce does, however, have problems pulling in tough balls and his open field speed also allows cornerbacks to close on him. All in all Boyce won’t wow anyone right off the bat. Will we see him on the roster this year? I think his spot is pretty safe coming into his rookie year. I don’t see him making a big impact immediately, but I think he is a great investment down the road, and I could definitely see him developing into a solid slot receiver. 

Josh Boyce