Out Route: Pats' Tyquan Thornton Losing Job?

The sting of DeAndre Hopkins' snub was supposed to be mitigated by Tyquan Thornton's speed. Alas, here we are, more than a week into New England Patriots' training camp in Foxboro and last year's second-round draft pick is not only failing to solidify his role but also moving the wrong direction on the depth chart.

Headed up: Rookies Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte. Headed down: Thornton.

The 50th overall pick in 2022, Thornton showed only flashes as a rookie. He was slowed in camp by a broken collar bone, forcing him to miss the first four games. His "breakout" game came in a win over the Cleveland Browns, in which he scored touchdowns both receiving and rushing.

But ... that was it. He finished with only 22 catches for 247 and those two scores.

After Hopkins the Tennessee Titans over New England, Patriot Nation figured Thornton would elevate his game. And role.

But entering tonight's practice at Gillette Stadium, so far he's essentially been a camp no-show. More often than not, Thornton's been relegated to the "lower field" for only conditioning work. His "soft tissue" remains a mystery, as does he role on the team this season.

Meanwhile, Douglas has dazzled and Boutte has flashed his immense talent.

Over the first 11 practices, Thornton made only two catches in 11-on-11 periods. Thornton's speed still makes him a deep threat, but his slight build and inability to stay healthy make him ineffective in the Red Zone or over the middle of the field in tight windows.

Thornton was a standout in OTAs. He bulked up. Some experts even tagged him as a "breakout" star in 2023.

But if Thornton can't stay on the field, he might not ultimately stick on New England's roster.

Follow Richie Whitt on Twitter

More Patriots coverage from Sports Illustrated here.