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Tight end went from one of the strongest units to one of the weakest for the New England Patriots over the past two years.
New England failed to bring in a reliable replacement for Rob Gronkowski after his retirement, with Ben Watson as the biggest name to join the team. Bill Belichick attempted to revitalize the position this season with third-round tight ends Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene.
Keene hasn’t touched the field yet due to a neck injury, but Asiasi’s been active for all five games. He began to build a connection with Cam Newton before the season, but he still has yet to be targeted. Ryan Izzo had three receptions for 38 yards last game — leaving questions about Asiasi’s abilities.
While speaking with reporters, Newton spoke about the rookie tight end and explained how he’s trying to help him gain confidence.
“Acai Bowl! He’s a young player that’s getting it, and hopefully we get an opportunity; or you guys, or everybody sees his growth and maturation over these last couple days and weeks, and he gets involved in the game-plan,” Newton said. “I even told him, just like I tell all the receivers and skill-position players – let’s not get into that habit of thinking you only can be productive because of how many catches you get. I think that’s the immature way of thinking. Production comes when you’re asked to do something, how do you fare up against what your assignment was.”
He’s a guy who is getting coached hard each and every day, and he knows what the standard is. Obviously the guy who was here prior to him knows exactly what they are expecting from that position. And I do believe, I have full faith in not only Devin, but everybody that’s in that room so when their number is called, I don’t blink. Just give them the opportunity when it’s given.”
The Patriots play the San Francisco 49ers this Sunday and any help from the tight end position is much-needed.
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