New England Patriots: An In-Depth Look at New Tight End Dwayne Allen

The New England Patriots have acquired tight end Dwayne Allen from the Indianapolis Colts. How will he fit in with the Patriots offense?

The New England Patriots must be certain that Martellus Bennett is moving on, as he is asking for more money than Rob Gronkowski. Bennett’s replacement has been identified, as the team acquired Dwayne Allen and a sixth-round draft pick for a fourth-round pick in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts.

Allen had been replaced by Jack Doyle as the Colts starting tight end. Even so, this is a great pickup for New England. Allen still has three seasons remaining on his contract with cap hits of $4.9, $5 and $7.4 million.

To compare, Bennett is seeking a deal worth more than $10 million a year.

Clemson product Dwayne Allen is just 27, two years younger than Martellus Bennett.

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New England has locked up a solid backup for Rob Gronkowski, and Allen also has the ability to play in two-TE formations or to replace Gronk if any more injuries occur.

Last season was a resurgence for Allen as he bounced back from a one touchdown campaign in 2015. In 2016, he started all 14 games he played in. Allen hauled in 35 receptions and six of those went for touchdowns. In New England, Bennett caught 20 more passes and seven went for scores.

Allen’s presence will certainly be felt in the rushing attack, as he is a superb blocking tight end. Following his hip injury, his blocking ability has deteriorated slightly, but he should still be able to help New England’s running backs break free.

Injuries have forced Allen to miss 23 games over the past four seasons, so he never reached his full potential with the Colts. If he can maintain his health he’ll be a steal at the price of just a fourth-round pick.

Allen tweeted his thanks to the Colts organization, but added that he is excited to join the Patriots.

The Patriots should be set, for now, at the tight end position. The team has newly tendered TE Matt Lengel behind Gronk and Allen. Lengel was targeted just 3 times last season, catching two balls for one touchdown.

Next: Seven Round Patriots Mock Draft

New England could look to add depth via the draft, but TE should not be a high priority entering April’s event.

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