Bye Bye Blocking TIght End Rookies Smith & Yeatman
When I was projecting my 53-man roster and threw it out there that the Pats could try to get both Lee Smith and Will Yeatman to the practice squad I knew it would be a risk. The Patriots must’ve known that as well, but it really backfired today when both rookies went to divisional rivals. I guess what neither of us realized is just how great the interest is in guys who have spent time in Foxboro.
The Patriots’ cuts were most desirable around the NFL. The team had five players claimed on waivers (WR Brandon Tate, G/C Thomas Austin, TE Lee Smith, TE Will Yeatman, DLLandon Cohen), and a total of 16 claims were placed on those players. No other team came close to that total.
The good news is that the Jets didn’t get either of them, and also look like they’re in full on panic mode about their offensive line.
We could very well see the return of Alge Crumpler, and I’m very curious to see if Crump kept himself in shape. I actually think it will be of benefit to Gronk and Hernando more if there’s a veteran presence with them.
Still, Crump might not even have a full year left in him, and Smith/Yeatman looked like viable candidates to replace his role of the third blocking tight end, who can also catch a few passes. Now the Pats are back to square one in that area, not that a third down tight end is really that hard to find.
Brian Waters
Curious to see how quickly Waters is out there. My thinking is that he’d be worked in slowly behind Connolly and eventually take over there in mid-late October, maybe sooner depending on how in shape and healthy he was.
But from the scouting reports I have to say I think he’s a great addition if he can hold up, and the amount they had to spend to get him makes the James Sanders of it all a little more understandable.
Week One: Miami
Time to start scouting Miami. Chad Henne, Reggie Bush and Cameron Wake are the first names that come to mind. What kind of defense will New England come out in? Just how healthy are the Pats? Lots of questions. Should be fun.
And we’re off on another campaign…
