The Patriots have the best tight end combination in the NFL with Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett.
Gronk is the greatest tight end of all time and when it’s all said and done, could be one of the most dominant players of all time. Bennett isn’t in that class but he’s been a good player the last three years. Two years ago, Bennett caught 90 balls.
The Patriots have three other tight ends worth keeping an eye on in camp along with Gronkowski and Bennett. Here’s my breakdown of the tight end position.
Rob Gronkowski, Arizona, 6-6 265: There’s not much to say about the greatest tight end of all time. If he can stay healthy, Gronkowski will end up 1200 yards and ten plus touchdowns. He’s a match up nightmare because of his size and athleticism.
The Patriots can line him up at tight end, split end, in the slot or as a wing. Regardless of the alignment, Gronk will generate a match up.
Gronkowski will be counted on to give Jimmy Garoppolo a reliable target the first four games while Tom Brady is suspended. The Patriots will once again be leaning on Gronk to be a catalyst for their offense.
Martellus Bennett, Texas A&M, 6-6 265: Bennett is a better player than Scott Chandler whom the Patriots tried to pair up with Gronk last season. That being said, Bennett has some flaws. He’s an inconsistent blocker who can’t seem to maintain positioning on his blocks.
Bennett can also be inconsistent as a receiver. He can be a sloppy route runner and he doesn’t separate after the catch. Despite the negatives, Bennett is a difference maker and he could catch 80 balls in the Patriots offense.
From a size standpoint, Bennett is similar to Gronk and he can be used in a similar fashion schematically. Bennett also gave the Patriots a number one tight end in the event Gronk gets hurt.
Clay Harbor, Missouri State, 6-3 252: Harbor has started the season on the PUP list but if healthy, he’s a versatility piece that can be moved around in formations and generate match ups. Harbor is a limited blocker who is better blocking in space than he is in line.
Bryce Williams, East Carolina, 6-6 257: Williams is an intriguing prospect. He was primarily used as a sixth offensive lineman in East Carolina’s spread offense but he has the skill set to be a good receiver and a red zone threat out of 13 personnel (3 TE’s, 1 WR, 1 RB)
A.J Derby, Arkansas, 6-5 245: Derby is athletic and has the ability to generate match ups however he can’t seem to stay on the field and he’s overmatched as an inline blocker. Lacks the lower body strength to consistently compete as a blocker. Derby will struggle to make the team.