Kenbrell Thompkins release raises a lot of thoughts

via FFCounselor
Kenbrell Thompkins established himself as the top receiver behind Julian Edelman heading into camp. He drew praise from Belichick as one of the hardest workers, culminating with a solid week 1 start against Miami. Then something happened. He was inactive the next week against Minnesota, hardly saw the field against Oakland, and was again inactive against Kansas City. The fall for Thompkins was quick, but it wasn't obvious.

Tom E. Curran of CSNNE had this to say about the release.

If this is the case, hopefully Thompkins clears waivers and is back with the team. He has the ability but has never been given much of a chance to make that second year jump.

If the Patriots are trying to clear out some wide receivers, why isn't Danny Amendola on the outs? He's a good trade option for a team looking for a slot receiver. Besides an incredible 10 catch Week 1 performance last year against Buffalo, Amendola hasn't been noticeable. He was injured all year, per usual, but he's healthy this year and has done absolutely nothing. Bryan Tyms is also back, which is even more reason to say bye to Amendola. If Amendola makes me eat my words I'll be happy because it means he's producing, but I don't see a spot for him, while I certainly see one for Thompkins and Tyms.

I understand Amendola has a huge contract and Josh McDaniels loves him, but he's been given more than enough opportunities. Time to go. I speak for most Patriots fans on that, he's a wasted roster spot right now. This wide receiver corps would be much better off with Thompkins on the field instead of Amendola.

I ragged on Brandon Lafell in a couple posts, and always questioned why he was getting the nod over the likes of Thompkins, and even Aaron Dobson. In Monday nights blowout loss to the Chiefs, Lafell was the lone bright spot. His emergence could have been a reason for the release. Lafell could be the physical threat we need. He showed some serious strength and explosiveness, which explains why Bill and company have been continuing to give him chances. It also explains why we write and they make roster decisions.

That being said, it doesn't mean the Patriots are always right with the decisions they make. They've been consistent for 14 years, so they're doing something right, but this doesn't make much sense. Tom E. Curran's sources could be right, and that would justify this move, but there's still the risk that another team signs him.

All this talk is speculation, we won't know why he was released for a couple days. Thompkins is a rangy, athletic intermediate threat that any team could use, but hopefully no team needs him right now and we can get him back. Nonetheless, his release certainly makes you think about the state of the wide receiving corps with him versus without him.

-Brian Thibodeau

Follow me on Twitter - @b_thibs34

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