The New England Patriots turned some heads by taking Cole Strange with the 29th overall pick in the first round and did the same by trading up to take Tyquan Thornton with the 50th overall pick in the second round.
Thornton is a speedy wideout who caught the attention of fans and scouts alike with his blazing 4.28 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, but will his wheels translate to fantasy success in 2022?
Tyquan Thornton NFL Draft Outlook
Thornton brings exceptional speed to the Patriots’ offense, giving Mac Jones a dynamic weapon.
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Many people thought Thornton would be selected in the third round at the earliest, but New England seemed to value him higher than other teams. Given that information, the Patriots could have a role in mind for the Baylor product in his rookie season.
New England currently has a crowded receiver room with Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne, DeVante Parker, and Nelson Agholor, making it tough for Thornton to carve out an immediate role. Bill Belichick isn’t known for playing rookies at skill positions to begin their careers, either, so don’t expect Thornton to start in 2022.
Tyquan Thornton Fantasy Football WR Tips
Thornton could struggle to see the field on offense in 2022 unless a couple of injuries pop up for the Patriots. Jones also isn’t an elite deep-ball thrower, so New England isn’t an ideal landing spot for Thornton from a fantasy perspective.
In rookie drafts, I’d rather let someone else take Thornton and target other rookie wideouts. I envision him being a special teams contributor next season as the Patriots likely won’t force him onto the field, leading to a lack of opportunities for the athletically talented wide receiver.
Tyquan Thornton Scouting Report
Strengths
- Speed
- Home run ability
- Willing blocker
Weaknesses
- Route running
- Making consistent catches in traffic
