Youth Movement At Tight End For The Patriots

The Patriots have several tight ends on the active roster. The Ben Watson and Matt Lacosse, played majority of the snaps at tight end last season and were sorely disappointing. Ryan Izzo started to become a target for Brady during weeks five and six but a concussion and the side effects of, saw him eventually get red shirted.

In 2020 the Patriots drafted two third round tight ends that can play anywhere on the line. Asiasi, who's primarily known for his inline blocking, and Keene, who's known for lining up as a fullback in the H-back position. The Patriots also signed a few other free agents.

Asiasi gave his opinion on Keene's and his uphill climb this offseason. “I think it’s a challenge for us rookies coming right now because of the whole situation. I think each and every day we’re taking it day by day. Trying to see and look at the things we can work on and seeing the things we’re doing well in. Keeping those tools sharp, but also putting different tools in the toolbox."

Not having the preseason really does hurt development and evaluation of the players. Fans complain but players and coaches understand the importance of those games. The NFL should really add those games to the regular season for the bubble guys but that's a different story.

The Patriots other third round pick Dalton Keene also spoke with reporters. “To be honest with you, I really don’t know what my role is going to be. I’m preparing to do a lot of different things, so I’ve got to take a step back and learn as much as I can about the offense. And whatever they ask me to do, that’s what I’m going to do. So I don’t know exactly what my role will be.”

Critics have blasted Keene lately for "looking lost". If the Patriots are using Keene all over the place, then he might not have a set role or position on the team. Aaron Hernandez, Rob Gronkowski, and James Devlin all played different roles-spots. Keene will be bouncing between all three of their jobs.

Zack Cox wrote, "It remains unclear what the Patriots’ tight end hierarchy will look like in Week 1. It’s worth noting Izzo, the lone holdover from 2019, quietly has had a nice camp, as well."

Ryan Izzo is expected to be the Patriots week one starter. Before injury led to him being redshirted during week six, Izzo was on pace for 18 catches for 342 yards and 3 touchdowns. Which would've been about the equivalent of what all three tight ends put up together last season.