The New England Patriots have some position battles preparing to take place this season that should help overshadow whatever punishment Tom Brady is handed down. While the team was thought to have wrapped up all of their free agency and draft issues, the Patriots opted to make one more move on Monday that could end up having a ripple effect with others players getting released during training camp.
According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, the Patriots have signed Fred Davis to a one-year contract. The former Washington Redskins tight end was officially reinstated into the league after violating the substance abuse policy. At 29, Davis has 72 games to his name between 2008 and 2013 after getting selected in the second round of the NFL Draft back in 2008. If healthy, Davis could be a nice threat for the Patriots as he has 2,043 yards and 13 touchdowns in his short career.
However, could the addition of Davis mean the release of someone else? Obviously, Rob Gronkowski is the starting tight end for the Patriots. That is not changing any time soon. Right now the Patriots have five tight ends on the roster before including Davis and might only enter the season with three. According to ESPNBoston.com, Scott Chandler is a lock to stay since he signed a two-year deal in free agency. That could mean Tim Wright, rookie AJ Derby or Michael Hoomanawanui get released if Davis looks good at camp.
The Patriots will also have to make decisions at the running back position which is crowded. After getting linked to several backs in the draft, New England stayed put with their current roster, but not everyone will make it to Week 1. Despite his suspension, LeGarrette Blount will stay put. Bleacher Report had suggested he could get released, but Blount has proven to be the perfect back for Bill Belichick. That means Jonas Gray, James White or Travaris Cadet could end up getting released along with Brandon Bolden who must prove he is healthy.
New England drafted Devin Gardner and Chris Harper for wide receiver help. If they turn out to be a good addition, players like Aaron Dobson or Brandon Gibson could end up getting released. Danny Amendola took a pay cut to ensure he sticks around. Belichick has gotten strong rookie player before either of these players could turn out to be a success for Josh McDaniel's offensive plans.
