RADIO
Position, Team, NFL Draft Spot: WR, New England Patriots, 4.14
Dynasty Positional Rank: 70
Redraft Target Round: Late round selection
Analysis: It was only a matter of time before the Patriots addressed their need at wide receiver. They have a few great slot receivers to go along with a pair of receiving tight ends, but they lack a traditional outside receiver. In the fourth round, they selected Malcolm Mitchell out of Georgia to fill that void.
It’s tough to imagine that Mitchell will be a relevant fantasy option this season. He will be stuck behind multiple receivers, tight ends, and running backs in the progression when he does see time on the field. He’s more of a traditional wide receiver, but the Patriots are far from a traditional offense, which is going to work against Mitchell. He could carve out a role in his rookie season, but he shouldn’t be drafted in re-draft leagues.
Mitchell will have value in dynasty leagues because of the team he’s on, but he will need a few things to go his way in his career to make a big impact. He could have a role similar to Brandon LaFell last season during his career, but he only saw 75 targets. The Patriots love throwing to their slot receivers, tight ends, and running backs, which limits the amount of targets left for a player like Mitchell. If he hits his full potential, the Patriots will find a way to get him the ball, though. For now, he’s a high risk, high reward option in dynasty leagues.
