Patriots rookie WR Demario Douglas turning heads at training camp
New England Patriots rookie wide receiver Demario Douglas is impressing more than just reporters. He’s also impressing his teammates, including safety Jabrill Peppers.
When speaking with media members on Monday, Peppers praised the rookie sixth-round draft pick for his physicality and toughness on the practice field. He also revealed the defense has been noticing him making plays since the team was in OTAs.
“Oh yeah, we noticed him,” Peppers said, when asked if the defense had noticed Douglas on the field. “He’s out there making plays. The same thing you guys are seeing. But we saw it earlier on in OTAs. But what surprised me the most was his physicality. He’s a smaller guy, but he’s tough as nails. I think that will bode well for him.”
"Oh yeah, we noticed him."
Jabrill Peppers talks what he's seeing from rookie, Demario Douglas pic.twitter.com/luCLfsbkWe
— NBC Sports Boston's Patriots Coverage (@NBCSPatriots) July 31, 2023
The former Liberty pass-catcher made an impact in his collegiate career.
He tallied 172 receptions for 2,193 yards and 16 touchdowns in four seasons of play. He is coming off a 2022 season that saw him tally a career-high 79 receptions for 993 yards and six touchdowns.
Now, the sixth-round draft pick looks to make an impact for New England. The Patriots need wide receiver depth, and Douglas’ emergence could be a promising development few expected to happen so soon.