The Patriots seem to have some solid young talent, most notably second-year players Michael Onwenu and Kyle Dugger to go along with rookie quarterback Mac Jones.
But, according to a recent ESPN list, the Patriots rank 30 out of 32 NFL teams in terms of talent under 25 years of age.
“The Patriots rank lower in under-25 talent in part because they tend to redshirt rookies, which means there are a lot of players floating around here who haven’t done much yet but still have potential,” Aaron Schatz wrote. “That includes past second-round picks such as 23-year-old cornerback Joejuan Williams and 22-year-old linebacker Josh Uche. This year’s second-round pick, 22-year-old defensive tackle Christian Barmore, could see the field more as a rookie. He projects as a strong inside pass-rushing force, although we’ve only seen it for one year as a starter at Alabama.”
With that being said, he does have high hopes for running back Damien Harris.
“Running back Damien Harris (age 24) is our No. 1 under-the-radar prospect this year,” Schatz continued. “… Jakobi Meyers (age 24) was the only qualified Patriots wide receiver to finish with above-average DVOA last season, and he could be their No. 1 receiver again this season despite the additions of players such as Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne. Jake Bailey, a 24-year-old punter, made the All-Pro team last season and was No. 1 in Football Outsiders’ punting metrics.”
The Patriots will open the preseason next Thursday night against The Washington Football Team.
