The New England Patriots reportedly had a meeting on Monday with free agent tight end Will Tye, according to NFL insider Mike Reiss of ESPN. The 25-year old Tye started the 2017 NFL season on the New York Jets’ roster but was released during the recent cutdown.
The veteran tight end played two seasons with the New York Giants, where he recorded 42 receptions for 464 yards and three touchdowns in his first season and then followed it up with 48 receptions for 395 yards with one TD in the second season. However, Tye’s poor showing in training camp prompted the Giants to release him on September 2.
The Jets claimed him off the waiver wire a day later.
Despite a rough couple of months, Tye is getting workout invitations from several teams. Prior to meeting the Patriots, Tye already worked out for the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens. Another tight end Evan Baylis was also spotted in Foxborough.
New England currently has three tight ends on its roster. Rob Gronkowski has been playing through with injuries, including a thigh injury that sidelined him against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week. Dwayne Allen is getting playing time but hasn’t made an impact offensively up to this point. Jacob Hollister recorded just two receptions for 24 yards in five games.
Pats expected to release LB
Linebacker David Harris has only played seven snaps in five games with the Patriots this season. The former New York Jets has been a positive presence inside the locker room, but Reiss reported that his days with the Pats are numbered. Several factors have contributed to Harris’ decrease role with the Pats, one of which is the lack of base packages in defense.
With Shea McClellin set for a return later this year, it’s just a matter of time before Harris gets released.
Injury could cost Gronk more money
The Pats’ decision to deactivate Gronkowski last week could have a big impact on his paycheck at the end of the season. According to Reiss, the Pats star tight end has only played in 70.5 percent of the team’s snaps this season.
That is on pace for just a third tier incentive of $6.75MM in his current deal. However, there’s still enough time for Gronk to salvage his campaign and hit the second ($8.75MM) or even first tier incentives ($10.75MM).
“He can still reach the first and second tiers based on receptions, receiving yards, touchdowns or All-Pro recognition, which might now be his best hope after missing Thursday’s game," per Reiss.
