The New England Patriots made significant efforts to improve their offense this offseason, bolstering their wide receiver group and making moves in the backfield.
One position they’ve largely left untouched, however, is tight end.
The team re-signed Austin Hooper in March, a year after extending Hunter Henry. Rookie Jaheim Bell currently holds the third spot on the depth chart. With rookie quarterback Drake Maye showing good chemistry with the two veteran tight ends, the Patriots appear content with their current group.
Still, Brandon Austin of Pro Football Network believes New England might benefit from acquiring another tight end and has linked them to a potential trade for Chicago Bears’ Cole Kmet.
“Kmet appears to be sliding down the depth chart in Chicago, which could create an opening for New England,” Austin noted. “Given that both Henry and Hooper are 30, Kmet offers a younger option with more long-term potential. A trade after June 1 could save $10 million in cap space, with just $1.6 million in dead money annually over the next three years.”
The Bears drafted Colston Loveland in the first round this past April, complicating Kmet’s standing with the team. While Chicago could utilize two-tight-end formations, Kmet’s decreasing involvement last season suggests he might benefit from a fresh start.
That said, it’s uncertain whether New England is the right fit. Maye has already developed a strong rapport with Henry and Hooper, making it unlikely that Kmet would be smoothly integrated into the offense.
If the Patriots are looking to add another offensive weapon, pursuing a proven wide receiver might be a wiser move than acquiring another tight end.
SOURCE: SI.COM
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