The New England Patriots are still feeling out the free agency market for wide receiver talent leading up to the NFL Draft. After last year's struggles in the passing game, the team has made the receiving corps a focus heading into 2014. Despite beefing tings up a bit in free agency, the receiving group is still lacking and could cause one more signing before also bringing on a rookie in the draft.
According to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald, the Patriots are bringing in Miles Austin for a visit and are also considering re-signing Austin Collie to help fill roster voids. The Patriots have already re-signed 2013 leading receiver Julian Edelman to a multi-year contract. They also brought in former Carolina Panthers wide receiver Brandon LaFell. However, after losing Wes Welker, Aaron Hernandez and facing uncertainly with Rob Gronkowski, the two signings were simply not enough which is why Austin and Collie are targets even before the draft.
The Patriots are looking at Austin and Collie, but are not ready to commit any money to them. Austin has faced bad hamstring issues over the past few seasons despite being a breakout wide receiver just a few years ago. He put up 244 yards off 24 catches in a disappointing 2013. Collie has also faced his share of injuries over his career including several concussions. He had 63 yards off six catches in just seven games with the Patriots last season. Both players would be targeted as no financial commitments/camp vets which means the Patriots can see how they would fit before losing any money on them.
The interest in the free agent veterans comes as speculation continues to run wild about the future of Danny Amendola. Expected to be the replacement of Welker, the wide receiver played a disappearing act in 2013. He had hip complications most of the season and after opting out of offseason surgery, he could easily have them again. The Patriots might not be willing to release him after just one season, but they certainly are not putting their faith in him.
New England is also keeping an eye on the draft for prospects outside of Sammy Watkins and Mike Evans. The team has already held a workout for former FSU star Kelvin Benjamin and could be eyeing Marqise Lee as well. Both players should be around in the second round at least.