We noted last week that Chad Ochocinco’s role in New England wasn’t growing. On Sunday against the Cowboys, Ocho actually took a big step back.
The $6 million receiver was only on the field for seven snaps against Dallas, according to Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com. One pass was thrown in Ochocinco’s direction.
On that pass, there was a miscommunication between Tom Brady and Ochocinco. Brady thought Ocho was supposed to run a slant, and he didn’t. Brady could be seen barking at Ochocinco after the play.
Shalise Manza Young of the Boston Globe notes that Ochocinco still needs to be told by teammates where to line up on occasion.
It’s worth wondering if Ochocinco’s time with the team could be short. The team invested a big signing bonus in Ochocinco, but at some point he may not be worth keeping around as an insurance policy. If the team cut Ochocinco after the trading deadline, he would pass through waivers.
It’s possible that youngster Taylor Price is already a better option than Ochocinco. And what if the Patriots add talent at the position?
The Patriots reportedly have interest in Brandon Lloyd, who would seemingly take the role Ocho was supposed to play.
Lloyd knows Josh McDaniels’ system and likely got a recommendation from his former boss. Young writes that Bill Belichick has “always liked” Lloyd as a player.
Belichick always liked Ochocinco too. At least until he traded for him.
UPDATE: Lloyd got dealt to the Rams. That should help Ochocinco breathe easier.