5 bold predictions for the New England Patriots in 2018

FOXBOROUGH, MA - JUNE 5: New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick stands on the field as quarterback Tom Brady work on a passing drill at rear right during Patriots minicamp at the Gillette Stadium practice facility in Foxborough, MA on June 5, 2018. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) /

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FOXBOROUGH, MA – JUNE 7: New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowksi catch a ball at Patriots minicamp at the Gillette Stadium practice facility in Foxborough, Mass., on June 7, 2018. (Photo by Jonathan Wiggs/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) /

1. Rob Gronkowski will eclipse 1,400 yards receiving

Gronkowski has made plenty of headlines this offseason about his desire for a new contract. Expect the conservation to shift when the season starts. The talented tight end is due to have a career year in New England.

The absence of top-tier wide receiver talent on the roster will put more pressure on Gronkowski to consistently produce than ever before. That need, combined with his prodigious talent is a dangerous combination for teams looking to knock off the Patriots.

It’s worth noting that 1,400 yards wouldn’t be an unprecedented total for Gronkowski. He did put up 1,327 yards receiving back in 2011. Even so, this prediction will require him to go just under 400 yards over his 2017 total.

The key for Gronkowski and this prediction will be whether or not he can stay healthy for a full season. That big year in 2011 also coincides with the only time in his career he’s played all 16 regular season games. The good news is he seems to be entering this preseason at full go.

Next: It's time for the Patriots to pay Gronkowski

Gronkowski doesn’t have too many great seasons left in his building, but 2018 is going to be a massive one. Gronk is going to remind everyone, including the Patriots front office, why he deserves to be paid like a wide receiver.

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