Patriots Reportedly Targeting Former First-Round Tight End In Free Agency

The retirement of Rob Gronkowski caused almost irreversible damage to the Patriots roster. The team had a hard time coping with the loss of the talented tight end. It was hard for them to replace Gronk. But, it looks like the Patriots are already interested in another tight end.

Patriots beat reporter Evan Lazar discussed the options New England has at the moment. According to the reporter, the Patriots may go after Colts free-agent tight end Eric Ebron.

“According to a team source, the Patriots are expected to make a run at former Colts and Lions tight end Eric Ebron when the legal tampering window opens on March 16.”

The Patriots need a tight end in 2020

Ebron will turn 27 years old on April 10. He is entering his seventh NFL season in 2020. The talented tight was a first-round pick (No. 10 overall) of the Detroit Lions in 2014. The team cut him during the 2018 offseason, and he inked a two-year contract worth $13 with the Indianapolis Colts. During his time with the Colts, Ebron caught 66 passes for 750 yards and 13 touchdowns in his first season in a new uniform. This is actually the best statistical performance of his pro career.

The 6’4,” 253-pound Pro Bowler had his struggles with drops at some points in his career. However, Lazar is convinced that Ebron’s best fit within Belichick’s offense is as a mismatch in the passing game.

“Ebron isn’t known for his blocking, although his Colts tape the last two seasons wasn’t a complete waste of time in that regard,” wrote Lazar. “He can execute kick-outs and down blocks, but we shouldn’t expect him to be a focal point of the rushing attack. Ebron shines as a pass-catcher, where he’s got some serious burst and vertical speed for a tight end. Ebron is too fast for most linebackers and is dangerous running the seam. Even in the red zone, he can separate over the top due to his sudden acceleration of the line.”

Veteran tight end Ben Watson retired, and New England has just two options for the position. Matt LaCosse and Ryan Izzo will have to fill the void. Ebron has great athleticism and speed, and Belichick may get him this offseason.