Malcolm Mitchell

Malcolm Mitchell currently in lead for Patriots' X receiver job

New England Patriots rookie wide receiver Malcolm Mitchell the leading candidate for the starting "X" receiver job, ESPN reporter Mike Reiss believes.

What It Means:

As it stands now, Mitchell will man the X, Julian Edelman the Z, and Chris Hogan the slot. Mitchell being named a starter seems nice, but he's at best fourth in line for targets in this setup, considering how much attention Edelman, tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett, and running back Dion Lewis garner. Mitchell is more of a Dynasty stash.

Our models project Mitchell to record six catches for 88 yards and 0.44 touchdowns this season for New England.