New England Patriots: 3 Receivers to Replace Josh Gordon

One of my favorite wide receiver prospects in this years class, JJ Arcega-Whiteside from Stanford seems like the type of player the New England Patriots covet. The 6’3 225 pound Cardinal receiver saved his best season for last, adding 969 yards and 14 touchdowns to his resume.

Arcega-Whiteside has elite quickness and acceleration that help him shake defenders in his routes. JJ Arcega-Whiteside is exceptionally physical and can make the contested catch in heavy coverage. Like every other receiver on this list Arcega-Whiteside is more than capable of producing yards-after-catch which is something the Patriots expect from their receivers.

JJ Arecega-Whiteside does not have top end speed, but that is rarely a problem as he makes up for it with acceleration and agility. Arcega-Whiteside never eclipsed 1,000 yards and some may question his overall lack of production. There is some concern that Arcega-Whiteside may be a one year wonder.

While Arcega-Whiteside could likely line up in any spot on the field, his most natural fit is as an outside receiver. Arcega-Whiteside can use his big frame and physical play to box defenders out and make catches along the boundary, something he did often in college. Arcega-Whiteside is a natural redzone threat. Similar to N’Keal Harry, JJ Arcega-Whiteside could be a legitimate number 1 receiver and the primary target in an NFL offense.

JJ Arcega-Whiteside could see his stock rise with good testing, but if the draft were today Arcega-Whiteside seems destined to be a late first, early second round selection. This of course would put him well within the grasp of the New England Patriots and I have no doubt that they would snag Arcega-Whiteside to be the next weapon for Tom Brady.