Which of these ‘forgotten Patriots’ could make an impact in 2022? originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
There’s been plenty of discussion about who may leave the New England Patriots in 2022.
Veteran safety Devin McCourty and linebackers Dont’a Hightower, Jamie Collins and Ja’Whaun Bentley are all set to hit free agency, while Pro Bowl cornerback J.C. Jackson doesn’t seem to be on the same page with the team about his contract situation.
Perry: Jackson gets candid about his contract desires
But there are five young Patriots — three of them taken by New England in the 2021 NFL Draft — who could be ready to fill the void after essentially redshirting in 2021. While these players missed most or all of last season, the Patriots invested draft capital and/or money in all of them, suggesting the team believes they can make an impact in 2022.
Here’s our list of the Patriots players you may have forgotten about but are worth keeping an eye on next season.
McMillan was placed on…