Dec 16, 2012; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Michael Hoomanawanui (47) makes the catch against San Francisco 49ers strong safety Donte Whitner (31) during the third quarter at Gillette Stadium. The San Francisco 49ers defeated the New England Patriots 41-34. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Yes, I’m fully aware of all that is going on with the Aaron Hernandez case. That said, there is not a whole lot anyone can do outside of watching the story unfold. However this all ends, the 2013 NFL season is still going to be played and the New England Patriots are still going to have to go out there and put forth their best effort for 16 weeks.
For that reason, I’d like to redirect your focus back to the playing field. Over the last few seasons, the catalyst for New England’s potent offense has been the elite play of tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Hernandez. It’s looking more and more like the Patriots could be without both for a considerable chunk if not the entire 2013 season. In the case of Hernandez, perhaps even beyond that.
So who is behind these guys on the depth-chart? Who is going to step up in that role in an attempt to help New England execute their offense as planned in the absence of Gronkowski and Hernandez?
Here is a look, according to Ourlads.com, at the current players on the New England Patriot depth chart at the tight end position.
Jake Ballard
If he’s healthy, he is likely a leading candidate for a starting role. He’s not as dynamic or athletic as Hernandez or Gronkowski, but he blocks well, has decent hands and runs precise routes. The problem is that he hasn’t caught a pass in the NFL since Super Bowl XLVI on February 5, 2012, when the Giants defeated the Patriots.