Arguably no free-agent signings this offseason have changed the New England Patriots’ outlook next year more than the dual additions of tight ends Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith.
For one thing, their signings simply add more weapons to an offense that badly missed them last season and lacked production from their tight end position in particular.
It also gives the Patriots an opportunity to rebuild their famed two-tight end offensive system around the two young pass-catchers. While neither of these players commands the respect of future Hall-of-Famer Rob Gronkowski, using their versatile skill sets in creative ways could allow the offense to thrive even without an elite wide receiver on the roster (yet).