FOXBOROUGHD: This offseason, Mario Douglas looks different. It turns out that he feels different, too.
The Patriotsslot receiver decided to take on additional leadership roles both on the field and in the classroom as he began his third NFL season. Douglas claims that his increased vocalization on the Patriots has benefited him on the field.
Douglas stated, “I feel like it’s what I needed for part of my game, helping others, and I’ve been growing in the classroom.” I’m learning myself as I instruct others. I believe I can coach someone when I’m out there and I see them doing something. And I think I was in that playbook quite a bit.
Mike Vrabel announced Douglas as one of his offseason award recipients prior to Monday’s practice. This wide receiver has been outstanding, according to the Patriots coach.
“Very coachable, great energy, and great demeanor,” Vrabel said. A recipient of one of our offseason honors. He clearly put in a lot of work and showed there every day prepared to learn and gain a position. I adore Pop’s company. He is a very energetic person that is well respected by everyone in this area.
This summer, it’s been clear. Douglas has nine receptions through five days of camp, more than any other Patriots player, following Monday’s practice. Along with Stefon Diggs, the slot receiver has been Maye’s main target.
For instance, third down was the main focus of last week’s walkthrough. It felt significant that Maye targeted Diggs (four times) and Douglas (three times) more than any other player on the field, despite the fact that the plays were not competitive.
Then, with many highlight-reel receptions on Saturday, Douglas had his best day at camp. One of the three contested catches was a 60-yard score in which he split Kyle Dugger and Christian Gonzalez in coverage.
“I feel great,” Douglas remarked. simply carrying out my duties. I’m enjoying myself outside.
Douglas’s first offseason in Josh McDaniels’ offensive scheme also occurs this year. Slot receivers like Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola, Wes Welker, and Jakobi Meyers have excelled in this system in the past.
In order to be the next in line, Douglas has set himself up.
Regarding McDaniels’ offense, Douglas remarked, “I’m enjoying it.” I can run routes when I’m out there. He encourages me to hang loose when I go outside, and I simply open up.
McDaniels has shown him footage of previous slot receivers he has worked with, Douglas mentioned. The 6-foot-4 Mack Hollins, who thrived with McDaniels in Las Vegas, was one of the numerous athletes that Douglas was taken aback to see.
There have been various players. Edelman, Douglas, and Jakobi Meyers said. I even witnessed Mack Hollins performing a juke route. The fact that he ran that astonished me. But simply to demonstrate that, with a little tweaking, any position can be filled by a variety of players. He showed me a lot of different players. It was good.
