Entering the 2023 NFL Draft, this years tight end class was considered one of the deepest and most talented in years. That seemed like good news for the New England Patriots, as they entered the weekend not having a tight end signed beyond this season.
But as the draft came and went, New England did not use one of their 12 selections at the position. While they did add Louisiana’s Johnny Lumpkin in undrafted free agency, it seemed like a questionable decision at first to not add at the position earlier in the draft.
Speaking after the conclusion of the draft, Patriots director of player personnel Matt Groh shared insight on the decision.