Patriots Host Stanford WR Michael Wilson for Pre-Visit
FOXBORO -- In case you have yet to hear, New England Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien has a 'type' when it comes to wide receivers.
O’Brien typically operates in a system which creates plays which lead his receivers under the defense. The quarterback is then charged with releasing the ball quickly and delivering it accurately. This gives the playmaker the space he needs to catch and run with the football.
One receiver which seemingly fits the criteria, is Stanford's Michael Wilson, who the Pats hosted for a pre-draft workout earlier this week,
At 6-2, 213 pounds, Wilson provides an intriguing blend of size and strength to the pro-level table. He also possesses the necessary speed to make things happen after the catch. The former Cardinal has routines shown the ability to create separation from his defender by moving quickly and fluidly out of his breaks. Once he is into his routes, he shows a mature level of patience in allowing his blockers to seal the edge, while giving the quarterback the chance to hit his throw in stride.
For the Patriots, Wilson’s ability to 'sell' vertical routes makes him a prototypical fit in O’Brien’s offense. During his time at Stanford, Wilson was often on the receiving end of wide receiver screens, quick outs, and crossers to get the ball into his hands quickly and in space. This allows the offense to operate in schemes which create space for underneath options. Coincidentally, Pats quarterback Mac Jones was at his most efficient when running this type of offense at Alabama.
Unfortunately, Wilson has been hampered by injuries throughout his five-year collegiate career. His 2020 season came to a premature end due to a foot injury, which also continued to limit his production in 2021. In 2022, Wilson suffered an undisclosed injury versus Notre Dame and was deemed out for the remained of this season. He finished his senior campaign having caught 26 passes 418 yards and four touchdowns in six games.
Still, Wilson appeared to help quell the qualms surrounding his present health with a four-catch, 76-yard performance in February's Senior Bowl -- which also featured an athletic 44-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter.
Despite having several needs on their roster heading into the 2023 NFL Draft, the Pats have been doing their due diligence on scouting potential pass catchers. The team has hosted Boston College's Zay Flowers, USC's Jordan Addison and TCU's Quentin Johnston for visits, while sending a contingent of scouts and coaches to Ohio State's Pro Day to observe standout receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
New England also addressed the receiver position by signing veteran JuJu Smith-Schuster, in arguably their biggest free agent splash of the offseason.
Though Wilson initially projects as a depth piece during his rookie season, both his physical upside and locker room leadership abilities make him worth a serious look for New England heading into 2023.
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