6. O.J. Howard, TE, Buccaneers
He’s got a fifth-year option, which the Buccaneers probably don’t want to use. But if the Patriots got the most out of him, perhaps they’d keep him around through 2021. Howard has been oft-injured, which has limited his ability to reach his full potential. In New England, he’d probably get an increased target share compared to what he’s had in Tampa.
7. Hayden Hurst, TE, Ravens
There have already been rumblings of the Patriots’ interest in Hurst, a 2018 first-round pick. He has not reached his potential in Baltimore, where Mark Andrews has emerged the top tight end.
8. Gerald Everett, TE, Rams
Everett is another Rams player who might interest the Patriots. L.A. rewarded Tyler Higbee (perhaps foolishly) with a new deal. That’s, in part, because Everrett hasn’t met the expectations that come with being a second-round pick. He has had big games, but not enough of them. Perhaps New England could feature him in its offense.
9. David Njoku, TE, Browns
His injury last season derailed what seemed like a natural upward trajectory in his career. His first two seasons showed promise. But if Cleveland doesn’t want to move on from Beckham, perhaps it’ll say goodbye to Njoku, whose spot in the offense is somewhat tenuous in 2020.
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