New England Patriots Have Complete Tight End Waiting In The Wings

The New England Patriots won the Super Bowl this year thanks to the talent the players have. Head coach Bill Belichick knows how to put together the best team, and he sure knows how to create the winning formula. New England’s nine-an draft class played 27 games and 677 snaps. Running back Sony Michel, cornerback Keion Crossen and linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley were active in games. Tight end Ryan Izzo was one of the six draft picks who did not play in any games.

The tight end was placed on injured reserve right after the initial roster cuts. New England put an end to Izzo’s season because they needed an extra space for receivers Chad Hansen and Amara Darboh. These were claimed off waivers. If any other team showed interest in Hansen or Darboh, Izzo could have played in the 2018 season.

The 255-pound tight end was active in two preseason games with the Patriots and was able to catch three passes for 15 yards. Pro Football Focus had great words for him as a run blocker in 56 total snaps.

Izzo was able to catch 54 passes for 761 yards and six touchdowns during his college seasons. The tight end ran a 4.86-second 40-yard dash with a 1.69-second 10-yard split, 7.15-second 3-cone drill, 4.43-second short shuttle, 33-inch vertical leap, 9-foot, 2-inch broad jump and 18 bench press reps of 225 pounds during pre-draft testing.

Izzo may become tight end if Gronk retires

If the tight end stays in great health before the 2019 season, he could replace Dwayne Allen as a blocking tight end with great receiving skills. Izzo may not be an elite athlete, but has shown some awesome blocking skills. He should play in 2019 in case the Patriots do not load up at that spot.

Of course, Izzo’s position on the roster will improve if tight end Rob Gronkowski decides to go home.