After an impressive NFL debut, New England Patriots rookie Demario Douglas is already showing potential as a valuable slot receiver. In the Patriots’ Week 1 game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Douglas stood out as one of the team’s most improved players, finishing with four receptions for 40 receiving yards.
During the crucial drive of the game, Patriots quarterback Mac Jones trusted Douglas to make plays, even though high-profile free agent JuJu Smith-Schuster was on the sideline. Douglas rewarded that trust by making a catch for over 20 yards, the only receiver on the team to do so.
With veteran DeVante Parker dealing with a knee injury and Smith-Schuster being benched, Douglas could potentially have an expanded role in the Patriots’ upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins. Alongside veteran Kendrick Bourne, Douglas has provided glimpses of optimism for the Patriots’ wide receiver group. If he continues to progress, he could become a valuable asset in the team’s offense this season.
Douglas’ journey to the NFL hasn’t been an easy one. When he first arrived at Liberty University, he weighed only 149 pounds. Despite concerns about his size and durability, Douglas worked tirelessly to gain weight while maintaining his speed and quickness. By the end of his freshman season, coaches were already drawing up plays with him in mind.
Throughout his college career, Douglas stood out as a hardworking and dedicated player. He would spend hours watching film and analyzing other offenses and receivers. His commitment to the game paid off, as he became Liberty’s top receiver by his senior year.
Despite scouts’ concerns about his size, Douglas caught the attention of the New England Patriots during the Shrine Bowl. Head coach Bill Belichick saw the potential in Douglas, given the team’s success with shifty, undersized slot receivers in the past. The Patriots selected Douglas in the sixth round of the NFL draft, and he quickly made an impression during training camp, earning reps with the starting offense.
While Douglas had a solid NFL debut, the Patriots coaching staff acknowledged that there is still room for improvement. With more experience and playing time, Douglas is expected to develop and become even better moving forward.
Overall, Demario Douglas’ emergence as a productive slot receiver is a positive sign for the New England Patriots. If he continues to progress, he could play a significant role in the team’s offense this season and join the ranks of successful slot receivers in the franchise’s history.
