FOXBORO, Mass. — Former Marshall wide receiver Aaron Dobson has signed his first NFL contract, agreeing to a four-year deal worth a reported $3.4 million.
The Patriots have wasted little time locking up their 2013 draft picks. New England has already signed its seven draft picks, all of whom will be ready to start preseason camp.
According to the Herald-Dispatch, Dobson’s contract includes $1.1 million in guaranteed money and a signing bonus of around $873,000. The Dunbar native and South Charleston High graduate was selected with the 59th overall pick in the draft.
Dobson caught 165 passes for 2,389 yards in four years with the Thundering Herd and finished his career tied with former New England Patriot Troy Brown, for fourth on the career touchdown receptions list with 24 scoring grabs. His 57 catches for 679 yards and three touchdowns was good enough to be named all-Conference USA second-team and earn an invitation to the Senior Bowl.
The rookie could find himself as one of Tom Brady’s top targets very quickly. Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd and Danny Woodhead — three of the Patriots top five receivers in 2012 — are no longer with the team.
In addition, tight end Rob Gronkowski recently underwent another surgery on his back and left arm, and tight end Aaron Hernandez is at the center of a homicide investigation.