The New England Patriots are in desperate need of a No. 1 receiver for the 2026 season, and it could fall into their kitty in Round 1 of this month's NFL Draft.
While the Patriots' offense took a notable step forward in 2025, it was mostly due to the MVP-level play of young quarterback Drake Mays. But as the competition became tougher in the postseason, the need for the team to bring in more weapons for him became apparent.
To start the offseason, Mayes' goal of getting more impact targets became difficult when he parted ways with Stefon Diggs, his top receiver from last season. However, in free agency, the team addressed the growing problem by signing veteran Romeo Doubs from the Green Bay Packers. But there is no clear evidence that he can be a legitimate WR1 in 2026.
With the top free agent receivers off the board, the Patriots now need to look to this month's NFL Draft to get their budding superstar QB a better target for next season. However, the WR position is always a target for teams at the start of the event, and previous mock drafts suggested that the best three in this year's class – Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon and Jordan Tyson – would be off the board in the first 20 selections.
Will Jordan Tyson still be on the board this late in Round 1?
Well, probably not. According to ESPN NFL expert Matt Miller, Tyson is now likely to fall out of the top 20 because "his hamstring problems are of concern to teams." Furthermore, his eight declines in 2024 also worry interested franchises. Football Insider said Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr. could surpass him and be the third WR selected in Round 1.
The Patriots should also be concerned about injury and decline issues. However, he has been in the debate as the best pass catcher in 2026 for several reasons. He is an excellent route runner who should make an immediate impact in the NFL. He is in good shape at 6 feet 2 inches and 200 pounds. Additionally, he has shown a strong ability to consistently beat defenders for balls in the air.
If Tyson is still on the board when the Patriots are on the board at 31 — which is now very possible — the Patriots should and likely will jump at the chance to select him.
