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Floyd to Pats: The Rich Get Richer
“Why would an 11-2 number one seed pick up a receiver off waivers,” you may ask. The Patriots may have the best record in the AFC, but due to injuries to Gronk and Amendola, the receiving core is as thin as Allen Iverson’s arms!!! The acquisition of Michael Floyd helps with the depth issue, but he also provides a big down field threat. The Patriots do have rookie Malcolm Mitchell (whom I recently wrote on) and Chris Hogan. Neither receiver has the size and skillset that Floyd brings. The only question is, can he learn the playbook this late in the season and produce?
Michael Floyd was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals out of the University of Notre Dame. He spent four full seasons with the Cardinals until he was released for DUI charge earlier this week. Well, the former Cardinal receiver was picked up off waivers by the 11-2 New England Patriots.
Definite Playoff Threat
Everyone in the world of football knows the Patriots offensive scheme is one of the most complex and versatile to learn, especially in a short time span. At Notre Dame, Floyd’s head coach was former Patriots offensive coordinator Charlie Weis. With that experience, the Floyd has a leg up on the verbiage and audibles. Having knowledge of audibles and terminology is a huge advantage for a newcomer. He can work on learning the playbook as quick as possible and gaining the on-field connection with Brady. Michael’s biggest hurdle is to gain the trust and find the same wave link as Tom Brady! If he can create a decent connection with Tom, he can be effective in the next few week leading into the playoffs.
The 6’3 220 lb. receiver presents a big physical receiver that can move inside and outside. Floyd’s best season was 2013 where he recorded 65 catches 1,041 yards and 5-touchdowns. As the Y or Z receiver (left or right side of offense), the former fighting Irishman can be physical downfield to maneuver defenders out of position as seen below vs. Joe Haden.
As the y or slot receiver, he has deceptive quickness for a big receiver and finds his way to the spot he desires (see below).
As the y or slot receiver, he has deceptive quickness for a big receiver and finds his way to the spot he desires (see below).
This is simply speculation because learning a brand new complex playbook three weeks before the playoff starts is easier said than done. The Patriots are one of the most prepared and hardest working teams in the league. If the new acquisition comes in and works as hard as his new teammates, he can make an impact that may edge the Super Bowl needle even more in the Patriots’ favor. Michael Floyd, on behalf of Patriot Nation, LEARN YOUR PLAYBOOK!!!
Damian Parson is an Analyst for Couch Rider Report. Follow him on Facebook and Follow/Like us on Facebook or twitter.