The Patriots signed tight end Lance Kendricks at the start of training camp yesterday. Kendricks is a move tight end who is an ideal fit as a second tight end who can line up as a wing or slot receiver.
Kendricks played for defensive line coach Bret Bielema at Wisconsin and Josh McDaniels when he was the offensive coordinator with the St. Louis Rams in 2011.
Kendricks best season statistically was in 2016 when he caught 50 passes for 499 yards and two touchdowns for the Rams. At 6-3 250, Kendricks can block in space and create match ups versus safeties and nickel corners in the passing game.
The Patriots have brought in several tight ends this off season to fill the void of the retired Rob Gronkowski. Kendricks will compete against Matt LaCosse, Ben Watson, Stephen Anderson, Ryan Izzo, Andrew Beck and Jakob Johnson for one of three tight end spots.
Kendricks has a good chance of making the roster if he has a good camp and picks up the offense early on.