The Patriots are so desperate for receivers they had a linebacker catching touchdown passes
- The New England Patriots have struggled to find consistency at wide receiver this year.
- On Sunday, quarterback Tom Brady turned to an unlikely source for some success, connecting with linebacker/fullback Elandon Roberts for a 38-yard touchdown.
- It was a significant touchdown for Brady, who passed Peyton Manning to move into second place all-time in passing touchdowns.
- Unfortunately, the touchdown wasn't enough, as the Dolphins stormed back to win and steal a first-round bye from the Patriots.
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The New England Patriots were ready to try just about anyone at wide receiver heading into Week 17.
In the first year since tight end Rob Gronkowski's retirement, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady has struggled to find a reliable rhythm with any of his 2019 targets aside from longtime receiver Julian Edelman.
On Sunday, the Patriots turned to an unlikely source for some offense: linebacker/fullback Elandon Roberts.
Roberts had been playing as a fullback for much of the season but had yet to touch the football through 15 games. That changed on Sunday, with Brady finding Roberts for a 38-yard touchdown with the help of a sneaky release out of the backfield.
Roberts was absolutely thrilled with the play, letting out as joyous a celebration as you'll see in the NFL.
Patriots fans were also hyped to see their utility man shine.
The touchdown was also significant for Brady, as it moved him past Peyton Manning and into second place all-time in passing touchdowns.
Unfortunately for the Patriots, Roberts' score wouldn't be enough to secure the victory. Miami stormed back, scoring a touchdown in the final seconds to sink New England's hope of a first-round bye.
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