Bill Belichick says Brandon LaFell's role "may be a big one"
In 2012, the Patriots converted 68.4% of their red zone trips into touchdowns, the 3rd best percentage in the league. Last season, that number saw a significant dip, falling to 58.1%, 8th best in the league. For much of the season, the team lacked a legitimate threat in the red zone with Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Dobson, their biggest receiver, sidelined for much of the year.
These red-zone struggles may have added to the intrigue of former Panthers receiver Brandon LaFell, who the Patriots signed in the offseason to a 3-year, $9 million contract. LaFell, who was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2010 draft by the Panthers, is as big as Dobson, standing at 6'3" and 210 pounds. With Dobson and Gronkowski still rehabbing from their injuries, and always susceptible to sustaining new ones, LaFell could emerge as threat in the red area this season. He flashed this ability last week against the Eagles when he grabbed a ball in the back of the endzone, thrown by Jimmy Garoppolo.
LaFell has been a player in focus this week with his former team in town. Bill Belichick had high praise for him today, mentioning his blocking and route-running as areas where he has improved. LaFell himself admitted today that he was "shell-shocked" during OTA's, but has made significant progress since then.
He could be an important player this year as the Patriots look to rebound from a disappointing offensive season last year. And it seems Bill Belichick is thinking highly of him.
@PatriotsLife
@LC_NEP
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These red-zone struggles may have added to the intrigue of former Panthers receiver Brandon LaFell, who the Patriots signed in the offseason to a 3-year, $9 million contract. LaFell, who was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2010 draft by the Panthers, is as big as Dobson, standing at 6'3" and 210 pounds. With Dobson and Gronkowski still rehabbing from their injuries, and always susceptible to sustaining new ones, LaFell could emerge as threat in the red area this season. He flashed this ability last week against the Eagles when he grabbed a ball in the back of the endzone, thrown by Jimmy Garoppolo.
Belichick on LaFell: "He's been able to carve out a role for himself here. Might be a big one. We'll see."
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) August 19, 2014
Asked about Brandon LaFell, BB notes his adjustment to running routes in team's system. Points out 25-yard deep out Friday as well done.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) August 19, 2014
Belichick on LaFell: "He's been very diligent in trying to learn his assignments and the plays." Mentions his route-running has improved.
— Erik Frenz (@ErikFrenz) August 19, 2014
LaFell has been a player in focus this week with his former team in town. Bill Belichick had high praise for him today, mentioning his blocking and route-running as areas where he has improved. LaFell himself admitted today that he was "shell-shocked" during OTA's, but has made significant progress since then.
He could be an important player this year as the Patriots look to rebound from a disappointing offensive season last year. And it seems Bill Belichick is thinking highly of him.
@PatriotsLife
@LC_NEP
