New England Patriots fans can't wait for this upcoming NFL season to begin. Not only will they watch their team defend their Super Bowl crown, but constant talk about "deflategate" should be coming to an end soon enough.

One interesting position to watch during upcoming training camp and August preseason games will be wide receiver.

Former Carolina Panther Brandon LaFell proved to be an excellent addition last offseason. LaFell blended in quite well into Josh McDaniels' offensive system. LaFell put up career highs in yards (953), receptions (74) and touchdowns (7) with Tom Brady under center. Julian Edelman had a another great season with 972 yards, so his position is more than safe. After that, Bill Belichick does have to carefully assess his options at wide receiver.

Aaron Dobson, Brian Tyms and Brandon Gibson are all fighting for bigger roles this upcoming season.

Dobson was selected by the Patriots in the second round of the 2013 NFL draft. Unfortunately, injuries have halted his performance big time. After an average rookie season in which Dobson had 519 receiving yards, he barely played last year. Dobson only started one game last season because of leg and foot injuries causing him to attribute just three catches all season for the Patriots. He even had a screw inserted into his foot.

Dobson is very young and he has skills, but if he can't stay on the field enough, the Patriots may cut him to save a roster spot before the regular season begins. Dobson is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent after next season.

There's also Brian Tyms. Tyms is a very interesting player. After stops with the San Francisco 49ers, Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns, the 26-year-old Tyms may have found his spot in New England. Tyms only caught five balls last season, but he has excellent breakout speed. It's extremely unlikely he'll be the next Randy Moss, but Tyms could provide the Patriots with a much needed deep threat while Edelman and Robert Gronkowski dominate down low.

Tyms is entering the final year of his contract before he becomes a restricted free agent. Although he has never had more than five catches in a season, Tyms may have a breakout season in 2015.

Brandon Gibson is the third receiver to watch closely the next month. Gibson had two 600 yard seasons with the St. Louis Rams in 2010 and 2012. The last two seasons he has played for the Miami Dolphins. The Patriots have cashed in well on former Dolphins wide outs in the past. Remember Wes Welker? His time with the Dolphins was cut short because of injuries.

Gibson has an advantage in experience and proven abilities, but like Dobson, health is a concern. The best ability is availability. Gibson is also set to become a free agent after this season.

Both Reggie Wayne and Wes Welker are each NFL free agents at the moment. However, it doesn't look like the Patriots will bring in Wayne or take another chance with Welker.

Follow Damon Salvadore on Twitter @DamonSalvadore1