NFP/Bowen: Why are the Patriots Tight Ends a matchup issue?

I’ve tried to avoid the deep threat hysteria, but at some point during the Patriot careers of Gronk and Hernando they should be able to add some dangerous outside speed and that will make them even more difficult to defend.

I’m okay with the savvy of Branch and Welker on the outside for now, but Branch especially is closer to the end that the beginning so before Gronk and Hernando’s contracts are done there will be a new starter at wide receiver. They’ll also be more experienced which is scary and should keep Tom Brady playing at a high level in the twilight of his career.