Dorsett had 33 receptions for 528 yards, a 16.0 yards per reception average and two touchdowns with the Indianapolis Colts during his second year in the NFL in 2016. Dorsett confirmed that he struggled with the transition to the Patriots to the New England Sports Network earlier this week.
"“That was a tough transition, but you can’t really control that…So it was just, come in, learn a whole new system and make sure you stay ready.”"
NESN profiled the former Miami football star earlier this week. The profile came a day before ESPN’s Adam Schefter initially broke the news about Edelman’s potential suspension. Dorsett commented to NESN about the competition among the Patriots wide receivers.
"“It’s competition everywhere…There’s always competition going. That’s my mindset when I come here and play. It doesn’t matter what happens — you’re competing. Everything’s on film, so you’re competing. That’s something you’ve got to live for when you play football.”"
Dorsett didn’t arrive in New England last year until September 2. He was traded to the Patriots for quarterback Jacoby Brissett. That didn’t give Dorsett much time to get into a rhythm with quarterback Tom Brady, get acclimated to the New England Coaching staff or learn the playbook.
Phin Phanatic
Dorsett spoke to NESN about spending the importance of spending the offseason with the Patriots.
"“It’s been great,…just being here for a whole season, actually just seeing the plays over and over, knowing what you have, not really second-guessing yourself. It’s a lot easier for me out here. It helps me go out there and just play free.”"
Both Berrios and Dorsett will have a chance to fill in for Edelman who is facing a four-game suspension. They will contend with holdovers Malcolm Mitchell, Chris Hogan and Kenny Britt plus offseason free-agent signees Jordan Matthews and Cordarelle Patterson.
Matthews had been a productive player in his career with the Philadelphia Eagles before appearing in only seven games with the Buffalo Bills last season.
Matthews has experience playing in the slot position that will likely be vacated for four games while Edelman serves the suspension.