Former All-Pro Wide Receiver Wants Patriots To Target Another Position

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A former star NFL wide receiver doesn't think the New England Patriots need to make a massive upgrade at his old position.

NFL Network analyst Steve Smith proposed an alternative path to ESPN's Mike Reiss. The two-time All-Pro wideout encouraged the Patriots to instead pursue a tight end, noting offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels' success utilizing them.

"I think the thing people aren't paying attention to with New England is the tight end position. They may do some things that may shock some people," Smith said. "It's the history of the coordinator. Think about what Josh [McDaniels] has always had in his offense."

Hunter Henry remains under contract for one more year after scoring seven touchdowns with a career-high 768 receiving yards last season. Could the Patriots pair him with a younger playmaker?

Massachusetts native Isaiah Likely stands out as an intriguing free-agent option. The 6-foot-4, 245-pounder has flashed upside throughout four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, but he's assumed a limited role behind Mark Andrews.

Mike Vrabel could also consider a reunion with Chigoziem Okonkwo, who set personal highs with 56 catches and 560 yards last season.

More attention has gone to New England's wide receivers, especially after the organization cut Stefon Diggs. However, Smith believes in an emerging group featuring Kayson Boutte, DeMario Douglas and Kyle Williams.

Smith also doesn't think securing a downfield threat for Drake Maye is New England's primary concern.

"It's a really good young core. The only way your young core really starts to develop is baptism by fire," Smith said. "Now I think they're trying to figure out who can take the place of Diggs with the underneath stuff, which he excelled at. Josh has always loved a guy that can carve up the defense in the short areas, and behind the line of scrimmage, almost like a run play. [Danny] Amendola. Wes Welker. Then it turns into Diggs. He's always had that in his offensive arsenal."

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