Five Patriots players worth keeping tabs on in camp

Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

 4. Justin Jones: Tight End, East Carolina University.

It’s no secret that the Patriots are thin at the tight end position as the season draws near. Gronkowski may not be ready for week 1. Michael Hoomanawanui is their only other tight end on the roster with proven ability in an NFL offense, but he excels more so with his blocking in the running game.

Rookie tight end Justin Jones is guy who brings a great deal of potential to the table for the Patriots. Now Jones is a very big man. He’s 6-foot-8 and weighs 275 pounds. He’s not a guy that will stretch the field by any means, but he could see some action in the red-zone.

Jones caught 52 passes and scored 12 touchdowns in three seasons at East Carolina University.

The 22-year-old’s game obviously needs to some fine tuning, but an opportunity to make the team it there for the taking.