New England Patriots: 5 observations from fumbling loss to Miami

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 12: Jonnu Smith #81 of the New England Patriots carries the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the first half at Gillette Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 12: Jonnu Smith #81 of the New England Patriots carries the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the first half at Gillette Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots Jonnu Smith (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

The New England Patriots tight ends showed up late

Perhaps Agholor, Meyers and the boys found some open spots because of the tight end tandem of Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry.

The two prize free agent signings were quiet during the first have for the 17-16 loss, but they showed up in the second half as Mac Jones begin to really target his big playmakers.

Henry, who was not targeted until the second half had three receptions for 31 yards and Smith looked as advertised with 5 receptions for 42 yards.  With a big reception during that final draft that unfortunately ended with a fumble, Smith showcased his athleticism hauling in a nice pass from Jones in the middle of the field.

The offense will only get better with these two on the field together as the season goes along.  Jones really did a good job as spreading the ball around.  While he did start to go to Smith and Henry late in the game, he targeted his receivers and also the running backs.

James White had a sweet 26-yard reception and Damien Harris had a couple of catches as well.  But, for this offense to really be special, the two tight ends are going to have to create some mismatches on the field.

In all, Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels may be dialing back a little when it comes to his tight ends.  But, when they are unleashed and Mac Jones is given more freedom to sling it, the New England Patriots offense will start to put some points on the board.