New England Patriots Need Quick Ascension From Tyquan Thornton

It remains unclear what approach the New England Patriots will take on offense in 2022, but early evidence from minicamp suggests rookie wide receiver Tyquan Thornton could form a significant part of their plan.

Following Josh McDaniels’ exit to take over as the Las Vegas Raiders’ head coach, Bill Belichick is still yet to confirm who will assume the Patriots’ play-calling responsibilities.

While New England’s second-year quarterback Mac Jones may not know who will be calling his plays this season, he appears likely to be targeting Thornton on plenty of them.

Thornton was selected by the Patriots with the 50th pick in the second round. Despite posting a lightning fast 40-yard dash of 4.28 seconds at the Scouting Combine, Thornton was not expected to go quite so early. Between Belichick’s questionable track record investing in wide receivers and the fact the Patriots signed Nelson Agholor as a deep threat last offseason, their selection of Thornton was certainly one to raise eyebrows.

Despite his status as something of a surprise pick, Thornton seems to have made a good start in his quest to vindicate the Patriots’ decision.

Indeed, according to Jeff Howe of The Athletic, Thornton has been mixed in with the starters during minicamp. Thornton is said to be “slowly working his way into the rotation” and caught the eye with a 60-yard reception from Brian Hoyer after burning Myles Bryant.

Thornton averaged 15.3 yards per reception and caught 10 touchdowns for Baylor in 2021. For the Patriots to take advantage of his speed and playmaking ability, they need a quarterback who is willing to go deep consistently and has the accuracy to complete those passes. Jones ticks at least one of those boxes.

Jones attempted 58 deep throws last season, his lack of an elite arm not tempering his willingness to push the ball downfield. However, according to Pro Football Focus, he completed just 22 such attempts.

That is not to say Jones cannot improve in that regard. Despite the limitations of his arm, accuracy was Jones’ calling card during his collegiate career with Alabama, as he demonstrated the ability to throw with touch and impressive placement.

Thornton could aid an upturn in deep passing for Jones and serve as a horizontal field stretcher with the potential to provide upside after the catch, fulfilling a similar role that Jaylen Waddle did for Jones in their time together at Alabama.

Agholor’s presence on the roster may prevent Thornton from playing such a significant part in the offense in year one. Yet should Thornton impress in training camp and preseason, then the Patriots could move on from Agholor and save just under $5 million against the cap, per Spotrac.

A quick ascension for Thornton could have on-field and financial benefits for the Patriots. The continued ambiguity around the play-calling situation raises concerns about Jones’ progress in year two, but he will be better equipped to take the next step if Thornton proves the rare Patriots success story at wideout.