NFL Free Agency: Chad Ochocinco Meets New England's Biggest Offensive Need

Entering the 2011 season, the New England Patriots had one major offensive need: a tall, physical wide receiver that has playmaking ability. 

That need has been filled. 

The New England Patriots have acquired wide receiver Chad Ochocinco from the Cincinnati Bengals in return for two later-round draft picks in 2012 and 2013, according to ESPN Insider Adam Schefter. 

Ochocinco, who stands in at 6'1", is a gifted playmaker and has the physical attributes that fill New England's needs.

During the Patriots' playoff defeat against the New York Jets, New England's wide receivers struggled to get open due to the Jets' press coverage and New England's offense had a difficult time completing any vertical pass for significant yardage. Wes Welker and Deion Branch were both pushed around by New York's cornerbacks and were unable to consistently catch any passes underneath due to the non-presence of any over-the-top receiver. 

With the addition of Ochocinco, New England's passing attack becomes more dynamic and could become almost unstoppable.

Ochocinco can be a physical player if he wants to and can beat press coverage and physically force himself open. Also Ochocinco's  greatest characteristic is his ability to be an efficient receiver going deep across the middle—which will certainly open up holes for Welker and Branch to roam underneath.

The main concern regarding Ochocinco is his giant ego. It needs to be clear that Ochocinco is not the No. 1 receiver for Tom Brady, as the No. 1 receiver is the one that is open on that certain play.

If Ochocinco can understand that concept, then he and New England's offense will flourish.  

The 33-year-old wide receiver will be entering a winning culture that should bring out the best of him as he's in search of a Super Bowl victory. 

I'm not expecting Ochocinco to put up any stats close to Randy Moss' in 2007, but I am expecting a big year for Ochocinco and New England's offense.

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