While it appears that the New England Patriots were merely kicking the tires on a former star, the club has confirmed that Dallas Clark had a workout with the team this week.

Best known for his stint as one of Peyton Manning's favorite targets, the former Colts TE found himself as a part of the max exodus from his former franchise as the team looks to rebuild.  Clark's immediate replacements are highly touted draft picks, Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen.  Both are expected to contribute as rookies.

Clark, 33, could very well have played his last NFL game.  In 2009, Clark hauled in 100 receptions for 1,106 yards and 10 TDs.  His longest receptions were each 80 yards. 

Without Manning, Clark would only notch 34 catches in 2011 and he accounted for 352 yards. 

If Clark does land on an NFL roster once again, it is unlikely to be New England. 

The Patriots set the recent league wide trend of double TE formations after enjoying exceptional success behind Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.