Report: Patriots Sign Ex-Riders Tight End Ahead of First Padded Training Camp Practice

The New England Patriots have signed a new tight end during the 2020 off season. This could be a big addition or this could be nothing more than a filler for the team. They are definitely looking to get better after a very disappointing season last year. With Tom Brady gone, the Patriots have a lot of things to replace.

But it seems like they are trying. The have now added an addition to their tight end room.

Right before the Patriots are set to start practice, they signed Oakland Raiders tight end Paul Butler. Could this be just what the Patriots need before the season?

He isn’t a huge get, as he has a big lack of NFL experience. Also, he has never appeared in a regular season game. But this will be his 3rd season so far. He spent most of the time on Oakland’s practice squad.

Head coach Bill Belicheck has already talked about what the new additions mean to the team. Most notably, the new quarterback Cam Newton, who most beileive will be the starter.

He talked about what he brought to the team. “Cam’s a hardworking kid. He really is,” Belichick said.

Report: Patriots Sign Ex-Riders Tight End Ahead of First Padded Training Camp Practice

That is definitely a good thing.

“He’s worked very hard, I’d say, as all of our players have,” Belichick said. “I’d say that certainly for all the quarterbacks, at that position, those guys have been locked in, focused and confident in what they’re able to do and the information they have to give to the team — playcalling, adjustments, audibles, protection adjustments, things like that. That’s all going pretty well.”

“He’s a big guy, that’s for sure — just his physical presence,” running back Rex Burkhead said. “He’s always been a great player, just [with] his versatility — his ability to run the ball and pass as well. We have been able to do that at a high level for many years.

“He’s come in right away, head down, and tried to pick it up as quick as possible. … His first impact has been great. He’s just trying to learn as much as he can and mesh and jell with the rest of the guys.”