D'Eriq

King

King joined the Patriots as a UDFA following the draft. He was expected to be used in a variety of ways, but the Pats likely couldn’t create a large enough role for him to justify a roster spot. King could wind up on New England’s practice squad as a developmental player.

Wilson reported that Patriots director of player personnel Matt Groh told King -- the Miami Hurricanes’ starting QB in 2021 -- “he would be given the chance to prove himself in a multidimensional role. King could line up anywhere from quarterback to wide receiver, running back, and as a kick returner.” Last year, King passed for 2,686 yards, 23 touchdowns, and five interceptions and rushed for 538 yards and four touchdowns before injuring his ACL in Miami’s bowl game. King played receiver at Houston before transferring to Miami in 2020; he totaled 58 receptions in two seasons as a Houston wideout. Head coach Bill Belichick could have his latest gadget player in King.

Schultz notes that he’s listed as “QB/RB/WR.” King (5’9/195) was one of the most highly-touted quarterback prospects in the nation ahead of the 2021 season, but between injury issues and overall inconsistency, he quickly fell off the radar. Now, King is looking to continue his playing career in the NFL and has made it known he is willing to play any position, something he might need to do to make it at the next level. King is undersized for a quarterback and lacks the general accuracy and arm strength needed to be consistently successful, but he has shown a great ability to use his feet to make things happen.