Patriots Must Claim This Bronco Off Waivers

Tight end has often been a strength for the Patriots in recent years, and that seems true again in 2023. New England has two quality TEs leading the way in Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki, both of whom should function as solid weapons for Mac Jones in the red zone.

While Gesicki appears to have recovered from the shoulder injury he sustained earlier in the preseason, it wouldn’t hurt to have some extra depth behind him at TE3.

Fortunately for the Patriots, a quality tight end just became available on Tuesday.

The Broncos waived Albert Okwuegbunam on Tuesday as part of their 53-man roster cuts, opening the door for New England to scoop him up.

While Denver didn’t have room for the 25-year-old, the Patriots still do. They could use him as an insurance policy behind Gesicki and make their tight end room a true three-headed monster.

Okwuegbunam isn’t regarded as a great pass-blocker, but he’s a terrific athlete who can make plays with his size, strength and speed. The 6’5, 258-pounder shined on offense at times for the Broncos, catching 54 of his 73 targets for 546 yards and 4 touchdowns in three seasons with Denver.

Given the uncertainty surrounding Gesicki due to his injury situation and down performance last year, the Pats should absolutely make a play for Okwuegbunam. They have the need, the room and the cap space to add him. He’d also be a good fit for the roster and would add some much-needed athleticism.

New England has its own cuts to make as well, but Okwuegbunam would be well worth a roster spot.

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