Phillip Dorsett leaving Patriots to try new opportunity with Seahawks
Phillip Dorsett presumably would’ve had another opportunity to carve out a role in a rebuilding Patriots offense. But instead the veteran wide receiver is choosing a new opportunity, agreeing to a deal with the Seattle Seahawks.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – SEPTEMBER 08: Phillip Dorsett #13 of the New England Patriots runs in the end zone after scoring a 58-yard touchdown during the third quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium on September 08, 2019 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Maddie Meyer/Getty ImagesBy Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Phillip Dorsett presumably would've had another opportunity to carve out a role in a rebuilding Patriots offense. But instead the veteran wide receiver is choosing a new opportunity, agreeing to a deal with the Seattle Seahawks.
ESPN's Josina Anderson first reported that Dorsett himself let her know he was signing with Seattle. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network later reported that it's a one-year deal for the former Patriots wideout.
Per Anderson, Dorsett texted her: "Seattle felt like the best opportunity to be the player I know I can be as a WR. I spoke to Russell Wilson on face time while he was working out. Shows you his work ethic. That got me extra excited. I think overall it's just t/ (sic) right for me."
Dorsett flashed real dependability and a rapport with now-former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in three seasons with New England. But Bill Belichick continually attempted to infuse the receiver depth chart with high-end talent, pushing Dorsett down the depth chart. As the offense looked to put more emphasis on recent acquisitions like Antonio Brown, Josh Gordon, and Mohamed Sanu, Dorsett's snap counts and production went backward.
It's not exactly going to be easy for Dorsett to get a lot of snaps and targets in Seattle, either. He's added to a depth chart that already included Tyler Lockett, D.K. Metcalf, and David Moore. The Seahawks also signed veteran tight end Greg Olsen earlier in the offseason and tendered former Pats tight end Jacob Hollister.
But judging merely by Belichick's actions while he had Dorsett in New England, then it's likely that Dorsett has a better chance to claim a consistent role out west.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
