6 rings & football things: Reacting to Kadlick’s Post-Free Agency Patriots Mock Draft
New Patriots pass catcher K.J. Osborn is entering a wide receiver room that includes the likes of JuJu Smith-Schuster, Kendrick Bourne, and DeMario Douglas, among others. He also enters team with a giant question mark at quarterback.
After trading away Mac Jones earlier this month, New England's current QB room consists of Jacoby Brissett, Bailey Zappe, and Nathan Rourke.
As of now, it's a mystery as to who will line up under center Week 1 and beyond -- and that uncertainly is something Osborn says went into his decision before signing with the team:
"It definitely went into the decision," Osborn told reporters via video conference on Wednesday. "I spoke to Coach Mayo and AVP [Alex Van Pelt] and things like that for the plan going forward. I trust them that everything will take care of itself."
The Patriots hold the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, and many expect that they'll use it to select a quarterback. The top prospects worthy of the pick include USC's Caleb Williams, LSU's Jayden Daniels, and UNC's Drake Maye. Whomever they select, along with Osborn, enters an organization coming off of a 4-13 season with a first-time head coach and a first-time general manager.
"I know what I signed up for," said Osborn. "I know it's going to be a grind. I want to be someone who helps this organization get back to where it needs to be."
The 5-foot-11, 210-pound receiver tallied 158 catches for 1,845 yards and 15 touchdowns over three seasons as Minnesota's No. 3 option behind Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen/Jordan Addison. With the Patriots, Osborn's looking forward to an opportunity to move up the depth chart:
"I'm excited to show the type of player I am," the 26-year-old explained of what he's looking to prove. "I've played with some great players and I'm excited to get some more opportunities and help this team win."
"The Patriots are getting a first-class player," he later added. "And this is a first-class organization."
Make sure to follow Mike on Twitter @mikekadlick, and follow @WEEI for the latest up-to-date Patriots and Boston sports news!
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