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3 dynamic tight ends Patriots should target in 2023 NFL Draft

By Michael DeVito

BOULDER, CO - NOVEMBER 6: Tight end Luke Musgrave #88 of the Oregon State Beavers makes a catch against the Colorado Buffaloes during a game at Folsom Field on November 6, 2021 in Boulder, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
BOULDER, CO - NOVEMBER 6: Tight end Luke Musgrave #88 of the Oregon State Beavers makes a catch against the Colorado Buffaloes during a game at Folsom Field on November 6, 2021 in Boulder, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /
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The New England Patriots have lots of needs as the 2023 NFL Draft approaches. First and foremost is the offensive tackle position which needs major upgrades. One or two should be added in the draft and another top starter in free agency. Next up should be defensive tackle.

Wide receiver and cornerback also need reinforcement but not in the top two picks. One position of need that needs a major upgrade but isn’t spoken of very much is the tight-end position.

The New England Patriots recent efforts to fill the Rob Gronkowski-sized hole in the offense have failed. Two third-round draft picks were squandered on Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene in the 2020 draft.

Additionally, huge cash outlays were spent on two tight ends who have failed to meet expectations, Jonnu Smith and to a lesser degree Hunter Henry.

A new tight end or two who can actually contribute more than the current complement is necessary. The position needs a makeover. Signing a free agent makes perfect sense to begin the process.

No.1 New England Patriots tight end target: Luke Musgrave

New England Patriots
Oregon State tight end Luke Musgrave. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

The Patriots dream pick should he fall to the draft’s third or fourth rounds, or should they trade up after taking two tackles with their first two picks may be Luke Musgrave from Oregon State. He’s 6’6″ tall and weighs 250 pounds. He’s also a pass catcher.

nfl.com notes:

"Between the abbreviated 2020 season and an injury-shortened 2022 campaign, Musgrave’s snaps have been somewhat limited, but it’s easy to like what he’s put on tape. His route running harkens back to his slalom days with nimble feet and smooth hips helping to generate rhythm and separation in and out of breaks. He needs a little more bulk for combat in the trenches, but he offers what evaluators are looking for in technique, strain and demeanor. Musgrave has starter potential and should gain a coveted slot on draft boards from teams looking to add versatility to their 12 personnel (two tight ends) packages."

Musgrave can get separation. That’s nice to hear. He’s a pass-catcher at the position which would be a nice addition. While injury curtailed his 2022 season, if he falls to the Patriots in the third round or so, he might be a steal. Take the chance and draft him.

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