Paul Perillo of Patriots.com believes that Patriots RB Shane Vereen is the player most likely to pick up the slack given the team's issues at WR:
"Vereen is a versatile running back with wide receiver skills. He came to New England with experience in a pro style passing game from his days at Cal, where he operated in Jeff Tedford's sophisticated system. He understands how to run routes and get open as well as catch the ball.
During the spring there were times when Vereen lined up as a receiver on the outside where the Patriots were looking to isolate him in space against a linebacker. It was similar to last year's divisional playoff win over Houston when he caught a long touchdown pass down the left sideline on a double move. I can see Brady and Vereen hooking up in a similar fashion – only more often – this year."
Meanwhile, writer Andy Hart believes that rookie WR Aaron Dobson will be ready to contribute immediately:
"In the past there have been other options that Tom Brady has felt more comfortable with and therefore life for the new guy hasn't always been easy. This year Brady won't have much of a choice. He's going to have to throw the ball to someone he's not overly familiar with – and Dobson is going to be that guy."
Both players likely get a boost given the team's issues at TE.
Patriots news
