Patrots resign former third round prospect

One week after being let go, the former third round prospect out of Mississippi State, Isaiah Zuber. Thus comes after Marquis Lee decided to opt out of his 2020 NFL season.

Mike Reiss who had tweeted about the undrafted receiver returning to Foxborough, also was quick to tweet the signing.

"The Patriots have finalized a contract with WR Isaiah Zuber on Wednesday. The undrafted free-agent is officially back in the fold with the team."

Zuber has that classic flanker build, 6' 190 pounds and could provide help on special teams as a returner.

In 44 games in college, Zuber hauled in 141 receptions, for 1532 and 13 touchdowns. He also averaged 9.6 up on 6 carries. Zuber had averaged15.5 yards on 33 kickoff returns and 16.4 on 11 punt returns. He had returned 10  of those for a 17.8 average in 2018. 

Here's what Tony Pauline of PFN said about Zuber, "Once-highly considered receiver prospect who can also double as a punt returner. Plays with solid instincts, comes back to the ball to make himself an available target and tracks the pass in the air. Gets vertical and exposes himself to the big hit in order to come away with the reception. Extends his hands to snatch the pass away from his frame and displays soft hands. Nicely adjusts to the errant throw."

Zuber is a tall slot receiver with game speed who isn't afraid to catch the ball in traffic. He is versatile and although he is a return man, he has the potential to be a decent gunner in the NFL. At one point, he was considered the steal of the draft when he was orginally signed. However, after being cut and lasting so long on free agency, there must be more red flags stemming from his transfer from Kansas state than reported on.

For more on Zuber, see my earlier article on him from the spring.