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Today's feature: Wide Receivers



Randy Moss, #81
Strengths: Possesses the ultimate WR body, very fast, can leap up and get balls no one else can, good blocker downfield.
Weaknesses: Drops a few too many balls, tendency to give up on plays not going his way.
Summary: Still a top flight receiver in the NFL, although one has to be concerned that his age will catch up to him. His mere presence opens the field up underneath for others to contribute. Should grab double digit scores with Brady's return.
Grade: A-



Joey Galloway, #13
Strengths: Very fast, a big play receiver, can play special teams if needed.
Weaknesses: Never fulfilled the huge promise that was expected of him, definitely on the tail end of his career.
Summary: Another grizzled veteran that signed with the Pats in hopes of getting a ring, Galloway is likely to keep his head down and do anything necessary to help the team win. He is definitely an upgrade over Jabar Gaffney.
Grade: B-



Wes Welker, #83
Strengths: The most elusive receiver in the league, sure hands, tough as nails, always picks up needed first downs.
Weaknesses: Small
Summary: The ultimate slot receiver, one of Brady's favorite targets, and definitely an invaluable part of the offense.
Grade: A



Greg Lewis, #17
Strengths: Blazing speed, good size
Weaknesses: Drops a lot of balls.
Summary: Came over from Philly in the offseason. Should contribute in special teams as well as the 4 and 5 WR sets that Brady typically uses. A great fourth option, and can probably step up if needed higher on the depth chart.
Grade: B

Other WRs:
Sam Aiken, #88
Matthew Slater, #18
Brandon Tate, #19 (rookie)

Overall: Wide receiver is one of the strongest and deepest parts of the Patriots' roster. They have a sure Hall of Famer in Moss, a Pro Bowler in Welker, and a very successful WR in Galloway. Lewis's career has been disappointing thus far, but Belichick has been known to rejuvenate careers, and I think his acquisition will eventually go down as a very important one to the Pats' title hopes. They are very deep as well, Aiken played some downs last year, and Slater can replace the loss of Kelley "The Body" Washington on special teams. Big things are expected from Brandon Tate, the rookie taken in the third round out of UNC. With the best QB of all time throwing the ball to these beasts, opposing secondaries better look out.

Tuesday: Tight Ends