One of the newest members of the Patriots, tight end Jonnu Smith, joined NFL Network's Free Agent Frenzy program Wednesday afternoon following agreeing to a deal with the Patriots earlier in the week.
According to reports, it's a four-year, $50 million deal with $31.25 million fully guaranteed.
Smith was asked what kind of player the Patriots are getting and he pointed to his work ethic as well as calling himself the most versatile tight end in the league.
“Definitely getting the hardest worker that [has] ever came through Gillette Stadium. That’s just what I believe in. That’s all I know," he said. "I was never the highest-recruited high school player, never labeled the best tight end in college, even at this level I have just had to carve out a [role] for myself. That is what’s kept me going. That’s what kept me in the weight room an extra 30 minutes than other guys and kept me going. Staying after practice on the jugs everyday, you know what I mean? That is all I know. That is what I believe in. There’s not a guy that when I walk in that building that can out-work me. I am sure the Patriots, that is what they believe in. Just being around a lot of guys with that same mindset, it’s a great feeling to have and to know that everybody over there breeds success and stands for the same thing. They are getting a hell of a worker.
"As far as on the field, I feel like I am the most versatile tight end in this league. That’s really not up for other people to tell me I am not. I know what I can do and I what I can do once the ball is in my hands. There’s no tight end in the league better than me at that. I am just going to go out and prove that.”
Smith finished last season with 41 receptions for 448 yards and eight touchdowns in 15 games.
"[Coach Belichick] had a certain belief in me and I have all the respect in the world for him," Smith said. "My plan since Day 1 is to come through that door and just work. That’s all I know. That’s what has got me here. I am extremely blessed and I am excited for the opportunity.”
Smith isn't the only big name tight end the Patriots have added, as they also agreed to a deal with Hunter Henry.
