As a fourth-round rookie who ended up contributing to New England's Super Bowl comeback against Atlanta, Malcolm Mitchell's Patriots career got off to an impressive start.
But just a couple years later, the former Georgia star's time in Foxborough has come to an end, in large part due to knee issues that kept him from the field for the last year-plus.
The Boston Globe writes about Mitchell’s release.
The Globe also takes a shot at projecting the Patriots 53-man roster as the team prepares for its preseason opener against the Redskins. The Globe breaks down some of the secrets of Matthews Slater’s longevity as a Pro Bowler and special teams captain in New England.
The Boston Herald notes that Mitchell is the second prominent Patriots receiver to be released this summer, coming on the heels of Jordan Matthews' departure. The Herald declares that both Eric and Jessie James Decker are joining Patriots Nation. The Herald writes about receiver Cordarrelle Patterson using a new offseason regimen to find consistency in his game. The Herald also writes about the attitude of the New England defense, including what veteran Kyle Van Noy calls the “most slept on linebacker group” in the league.
The Providence Journal looks at rookie Corey Bojorquez’ battle with Ryan Allen for the Patriots punting job. The Pro Jo has its story on the Mitchell release. The Pro Jo also writes about Dwayne Allen knowing he needs to be better in his second season in Foxborough.
ESPNBoston.com says that Mitchell’s departure alters the look of the Patriots wide receiver depth chart. ESPNBoston.com highlights the work that Bill Belichick has been doing so far in training camp, saying it typically features a “hands-on” approach.
WEEI.com declares that the Patriots “have a wide receiver problem.” WEEI.com notes that after his release, Mitchell thanked New England fans on social media. WEEI.com observes that Mitchell was released without an injury designation and writes about why that is significant. WEEI.com also writes about rookie running back Sony Michel’s injury situation.
NBC Sports Boston wonders if the deal for left tackle Trent Brown is the latest Patriots trade coup. NBC Sports Boston also writes that Mitchell’s release is a case of the “Other Patriot Way.”
NFL.com has its story on the Mitchell release. NFL.com writes about former Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler being asked everywhere he goes why he didn't play on defense in the Super Bowl, including in the bathroom at the airport. NFL.com lists the Patriots as having the best triplet group – QB/RB/pass catcher – in the league.
NESN.com notes that ESPN has ranked the Patriots dead last in the NFL in under-25 talent.
