It might not just be A.J. Brown out there playing lights out this week.
Many scenarios could play out Wednesday night in Seattle as the New England Patriots prepare for their Super Bowl rematch with the Seahawks. All eyes will be on Christian Gonzalez, contract extension or not.
Along the way, the question is whether A.J. Brown and Drake Maye will connect for a touchdown reminiscent of any time Tom Brady and Randy Moss linked up in 2007.
In the event that Brown is double-covered by the likes of Devin Witherspoon and whoever else the Seahawks decide to put on the field, Maye might need to shift his focus towards another key component of the offense that, like Brown, is a new one.
Free agent signee Romeo Doubs may become a factor in the season opener Wednesday night more than some may think, and it is for a lot of the reasons why Doubs came to New England on a four-year, $68 million contract.
Doubs' Ability to Keep Drives Alive
Doubs' ascension over the next four years will be key for the Patriots. His star is on the rise, and even with A.J. Brown in the building, he could be even more key for this offense in years two and three of his contract.
With the Patriots potentially struggling defensively in this game, Drake Maye might have to get in a shootout with Sam Darnold in this matchup. With attention shifted onto Brown, it may be on Doubs to make short-area catches to convert first downs, something he was known for as a Green Bay Packer.
Doubs, above all else, is a "chain mover." Let's not forget, though, he could have an impact in the red zone, an area Maye struggled in last year. Doubs has 15 red zone touchdowns over his first three seasons in the league. If the Pats need a receiver to catch a ball in a tight space, they may have found their guy.
Secondary Relief
Despite Seattle's secondary being known for its strengths, there is a slight advantage going into the season opener. The Seahawks may be without safety Nick Emmanwori due to an ongoing ankle injury.
If that is the case for game time, look for Doubs to play a factor in short ten-yard throws but then potentially bust downfield on a deep attack alongside A.J. Brown and other secondary WRs like Kyle Williams and Mack Hollins.
The Seahawks could also switch up their coverage units if Emmanwori is out for the game and tie in strong blitz packages. It's here that offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels could use Doubs creatively with slant routes and become Maye's hot read.
A.J. Brown might be getting all the attention out of the gate for New England, but the main point here is to expect Doubs to be the one who thrives in the trenches.
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