There is no bias here just because Malcolm and I happen to share last names. The Patriots are thin at receiver this year, especially with Chris Hogan being as banged up as he is right now. Sources close to Mitchell say that his recovery is coming along, and in an Instagram post, he said he’s “missing that feeling.”
Well Malcolm, we’re missing that feeling you brought later in the year and in Super Bowl 51. Down the stretch of the 2016 season it was clear that Mitchell was earning more and more trust from Tom Brady. This culminated in late drives in the Super Bowl where the GOAT trusted his rookie wide-out to make big plays. Mitchell followed through, delivering first downs and a 70-yard performance.
Brady Needs a Reliable Target
With Julian Edelman down, there was already concern at the end of the preseason about the depth at the position. Now with Chris Hogan, a player who almost always finds a way to get open, missing time, the Patriots will need a reliable option like Mitchell. Now, you might be saying “Dan, that’s ridiculous they just brought back Martellus Bennett,” and you’re right, but his ability to be out downfield for a pass and take hits is somewhat limited by his shoulder injury. What about Gronk and Cooks? They get their fair share of targets but are usually the two most defended players. Brady needs another legitimate target that he has a rapport with.
While he still has Danny Amendola to check down to, the 32-year old has been injury prone throughout his career. And sure, White, Lewis, and Burkhead can catch and make big plays. What none of these other players have is the size of Mitchell. Mitchell’s a bigger receiver listed at 6’1″, 200 pounds. He can match up and take hits more effectively from the bigger defensive backs and some outside linebackers.
Why Mitchell?
So, why should Malcolm Mitchell be the player to come off of IR for the Patriots? It’s simple, really. He’s a sizable receiver who has a good rapport with his quarterback and knows the playbook. Mitchell’s capable of moving the sticks with a variety of routes. He plays a position that New England will need depth at going down the stretch. He’ll take pressure off of the other skill players on the offense, opening the field up for his teammates. Get him back in Bill!