In just two short weeks, the New England Patriots will kick off training camp to officially launch the 2025 season. As it stands, the most heated position battle will be at wide receiver. With only five to six spots typically kept on the roster, 11 players are vying for a limited and highly competitive group.
While nothing is set in stone, a few receivers appear to be locked in.
At the top of the list is Stefon Diggs. With elite production and extensive NFL experience, Diggs is the Patriots’ top receiving threat and an obvious lock.
Next is Demario ‘Pop’ Douglas, whose game has steadily improved each year. His skillset aligns perfectly with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ history of maximizing shifty, slot receivers. Expect his upward trend to continue significantly this season.
Rookie Kyle ‘K Money’ Williams, drafted 69th overall, also seems like a safe bet. His explosiveness offers a dynamic presence the Patriots have lacked in recent years, and the team’s investment in a top-100 pick signals confidence in his ability to contribute right away.
The fourth near-lock is veteran Mack Hollins. Not only does he bring experience in McDaniels’ system, but he’s also the only traditional X receiver on the roster. Hollins’ size, physicality, and football IQ make him a coach-like presence on the field along with doing the dirty work that often goes unnoticed, but wins games.
Beyond those four, two spots remain up for grabs.
Veteran Kendrick Bourne is a strong contender for the fifth slot. He had a career year under McDaniels in 20201 nearly eclipsing the 1,000-yard mark. Add in his positive locker room leadership and experience, Bourne has a compelling case.
Then comes the chaos of spot number six.
Kayshon Boutte and Elton Chism are the top contenders. Boutte led the team in receiving last year and flashed real potential, but that success came under a different coaching staff. Chism, a promising undrafted free agent, checks nearly every box McDaniels looks for in a receiver being quick, reliable hands, and polished route-running.
Two more names remain in the mix: 2nd-year players Javon Baker and Ja’Lynn Polk. Baker shows flashes in practice and has exciting potential, but off-the-field concerns and inconsistent grasp of the playbook cloud his outlook. Polk, a 2nd-round pick from the previous regime, has looked solid when healthy, but drops and injuries have raised more questions than answers.
After two consecutive seasons of ranking among the league’s worst wide receiver groups, the Patriots are determined to turn the page. The new coaching staff and fresh talent promote optimism, but there’s no room for mediocracy.
Each rep, every practice, and all preseason snaps will carry high stakes. With pressure mounting and jobs on the line, this wide receiver battle is shaping up to be one of the most intense storylines in Foxborough.
As the pads come on and competition explodes, this clash of pass-catchers won’t just shape the depth chart, it could define the Patriots’ entire 2025 offense.
false
