Patriots NFL Draft Rumors: Mike Evans, Marqise Lee Targets Despite Johnny Manziel Visit, Miles Austin, Owen Daniels Free Agent Options as Michael Bush Deal Likely

Apr 03, 2014 09:19 AM EDT
Mike Evans
Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Mike Evans (13) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the second half at Kyle Field. "

The New England Patriots still have holes on offense that need to be filled. 2013 proved that Tom Brady can only do so much and he needs weapons around him. The Patriots made a few steps to making sure his receiving arsenal is filled, but another wide out and tight end would certainly be useful. As the Patriots bring in the two top quarterbacks in this year's draft, they could actually be looking to take a wide receiver in the first round.

ESPN.com reported earlier that the Patriots were bringing in both Johnny Manziel and Teddy Bridgewater for a workout. Clearly this is just for show. New England has one of the NFL's best in Brady and a quality backup in Ryan Mallett. Unless they plan on blowing their draft by getting a third-string quarterback in the first round, this is simply to drive up value. The Patriots real target could be a wide receiver.

NESN's Doug Kyed reports that while the Patriots drafted Aaron Dobson in the second round last year, they are considering grabbing a wide receiver in the first round this year since there are so many quality players. The Patriots have shown interest in Mike Evans, Kelvin Benjamin and Marqise Lee, knowing they draft too late for Sammy Watkins. Considering this year's draft is considered much deeper with more talented wide receivers, it makes sense that the Patriots would look to grab one early.

The team could also look to sign one more free agent before the draft. The team has made a splash early in the free agent market, but with Aaron Hernandez not returning and Rob Gronkowski's health status still up in the air, signing a "bargain" player is not a bad idea. Kyed goeso n to report the Patriots are keeping their eyes on both Miles Austin and Owen Daniels. Both players have not seen too much action in free agency since getting released from their respective teams which could make them much cheaper to sign.

The last position will be a running back for the Patriots. After saying goodbye to LeGarrette Blount, the team is looking for a short-yardage back with some power to replace him. They brought in Michael Bush for a workout and will also keep an eye on Felix Jones and Ronnie Brown as possibilities. 

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