Without Rob Gronkowski, it’s clear the Patriots’ offense won’t rely on the tight end position nearly as much this season.
It will, however, need some production from a combination of several options. New England doesn’t have a clear, go-to weapon at TE, but it does have many players who are in the mix and hoping to contribute.
Only a few will make the roster — The Boston Globe’s Ben Volin has Matt LaCosse, Eric Saubert, and Lance Kendricks — but here’s a glimpse into the candidates vying for playing time at tight end.