New England Patriots: Ranking team’s tight ends post-Gronk

4.  Ryan Izzo

The 2018 seventh-round pick ranks ahead of Stephen Anderson strictly because of his blocking ability.

Standing at 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds, Ryan Izzo is a young tight end with some upside.  Coming out of Florida State, the New England Patriots second-year tight end was primary known as a run blocker but does come with pass-catching ability as he caught 54 passes for 761 yards in his four seasons with the Seminoles.

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While he appeared in just two preseason games for the Patriots in his rookie season before being placed on injured reserve, Izzo could be a reason why the team elected not to draft a tight end in the 2019 NFL Draft.

Entering training camp as basically another rookie, Izzo comes in with a year learning from the sidelines and also has an opportunity to compete for playing time if he makes the team.

In my opinion, Ryan Izzo ranks as the No. 4 tight end on the team due to what he can do as a blocker.  If he shows any flash catching the ball, the Florida State alum could be the surprise at tight end the Patriots are looking for.