In the first seven years of his professional football career, experienced wide receiver DeVante Parker played with the Miami Dolphins. This offseason, Parker was dealt to the New England Patriots in exchange for a draft pick.
The wide receiver will be joining a crowded receiving corps for New England, one that does not have a clear leader. Tyquan Thornton, a rookie, was selected by the team in the second round of this year’s draft. He joins returning offensive weapons Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne, and Nelson Agholor on the roster.
Since the iconic quarterback Tom Brady left Foxborough two offseasons ago, the New England Patriots have not seen anyone emerge as a real lead receiver on the team. After having trouble in Miami due to injuries, Parker will have the opportunity to step up and fill that void for the team in 2022. He will also have the chance to become a major target for the sophomore quarterback, Mac Jones.
Is DeVante Parker a WR1?
The future of New England’s receiving group is uncertain right now. The unofficial depth chart for the team’s wide receivers does show Parker and Bourne as the two starters. This is undoubtedly far from resolved, though, given the number of strong receiving options on the club and Meyers’ leadership of the group last season.
