2020 NFL Draft: WR rankings - Unreal class depth leaves intriguing options for Patriots

The hype is real.

All the reports you've heard about this being the deepest receiving group in draft history are true. That you can find starting-level talent at least through the fifth round? Also true.

That's good timing for the Patriots, who despite conventional wisdom, don't have an immediate need for a top pick at receiver.

I know, that's blasphemy. But that's the way we see it.

The Patriots have Julian Edelman in the slot. He'll turn 34 next month but is still a good player, and the Patriots have Jakobi Meyers as his understudy.

They have a physical boundary receiver in N'Keal Harry back for his second season after flashing some encouraging signs as a rookie.

Mohamed Sanu is a veteran big-bodied slot receiver who should be more effective after his ankle injury and his second year in the system.

Damiere Byrd was signed as a free agent to bring a needed speeded element and has more playmaking potential than Phillip Dorsett.

So the cupboard is far from barren, but with Edelman headed toward the end of the line and Sanu in the final year of his deal (if he stays on the roster), the Patriots need to keep adding to their receiver stable.

This draft will be perfect for that, and there are plenty of prospects that will appeal to them.

The top players on the boundary and in the slot: 

BOUNDARY RECEIVERS


Jerry Jeudy, Alabama (6-1, 193, 4.45, Round 1): Best all-round receiver in the draft. Reminds of Antonio Brown with his fluidity, body control, precise route running and escapability. Average 17.2 yards and scored 26 touchdowns for the Crimson Tide. Makes everything look easy. Very competitive.