Phillip Dorsett, unsure if he'll return to New England, says he wants to start

Adam Richins | Boston Sports Jounral

Phillip Dorsett is set to become a free agent. Where he will end up next is beyond even him at this point, but he has one specific goal in mind with his next team: be a starter.

The wide receiver, however, has not ruled out a possible return to the New England Patriots, and he reflected on his time with the organization in a talk with ESPN’s Mike Reiss.

“They obviously traded for me two years ago. They took me in, and I loved my experience in New England. They made me a way better football player than I was before. I learned so much.”

Dorsett was traded to the Patriots in an exchange with the Indianapolis Colts for quarterback Jacoby Brissett in September 2017.

“The biggest thing I loved is how hard they work,” Dorsett continued. “That’s my motto. I feel like you get out what you put in, an we worked really hard in New England. I love that. Obviously, I would love to continue, but at the end of the day, you never know. I’ve never been through this process. I don’t know what the future holds for me. I’m just enjoying it right now.”

The 26-year-old started four games over the past two seasons for the Patriots, with more of his production coming early in the 2018 season. With Julian Edelman out with a suspension and Josh Gordon yet to become a member of the team, Dorsett was a go-to early on.

His contributions and stats tapered off near the middle and end of the season, but he was there when the team needed him. Dorsett caught 32 passes for 290 yards and three touchdowns throughout the regular season, while adding seven catches for 120 yards and a touchdown throughout the playoffs.

While he admits it was hard “taking a back seat” after being relied on more in the beginning of the season, the Super Bowl victory and team camaraderie made him feel rewarded for his work throughout the season.

Dorsett hasn’t ruled out a return to New England, but wherever he goes, he knows exactly what he wants.

“Obviously, I want to be a key contributor. I want to be a starter. That’s always been my goal.”

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