One of the biggest needs for the Patriots this offseason is clearly at the tight end position.
Last year after losing Rob Gronkowski, the team only really added Benjamin Watson and Matt LaCosse, and it had the lowest production from the position in the entire league.
It does seem like Bill Belichick and Co. will do their best to address the position this offseason, but the bad news is there are not a great deal of options. It also seems the position will be targeted in the draft as well.
Here are five free agent tights ends the Patriots could target.
Austin Hooper, Atlanta — At appears Atlanta will allow Hooper to test the market and being one of the best available, he could get a big deal. Last year in 13 games he had 75 receptions for 787 yards and six touchdowns. It's unlikely the Patriots will break the bank to get him, but if he's available at what they deem fair market value, he could be one of their top targets. It is worth considering how productive he could be in an offense where he's the primary focus of a defense. That could make some teams a little wary.
Hunter Henry, Los Angeles — It seems like the Chargers will do what it takes to keep Henry, but if he does hit the open market expect the Patriots to be interested. The 25-year-old finished with 55 receptions for 652 yards and five touchdowns in 12 games in 2019. He and Hooper are the top two names available, so usually this means big money will be thrown their way and that isn't what the Patriots go for.
Jimmy Graham, Green Bay* — Graham is not officially a free agent, but it's been reported the Packers will be releasing him, which means he would be free to sign with any other team. At 33 years old, he has a few productive years left and could be a good player to pair up with a younger tight end acquired via the draft. Certainly not the same player he was earlier in his career, Graham recorded 38 receptions for 447 yards and three touchdowns last season. This could make a lot of sense for New England as long as he doesn't demand a great deal of money.
Tyler Eifert, Cincinnati — The Patriots reportedly inquired on Eifert at the trade deadline last year, so it could make sense that they would show interest again. Obviously, he has a great deal of injury history over his career, but when healthy he's a talented tight end. Given how many games he's missed in recent years, he may not get as big of a contract as his talent deserves, and that would be something the Patriots could jump on. Last year was the first year he played all 16 games in his career and he finished with 43 receptions for 436 yards and three touchdowns.
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