The New England Patriots have one of the deepest tight end depth charts in the NFL. Led by All-world tight end Rob Gronkowski and offseason acquisition Martellus Bennett, the team is well set at the position.
Therefore, today’s news that the team has let go one of its depth options at the position do not come as a big surprise (via Christopher Price):
The Patriots have released TE Bear Pascoe, per a league source.
Eagle-eyed Eric Scalavino first noticed Pascoe possibly being off the team:
#Patriots appear to have parted ways with vet TE Bear Pascoe. He had a shared locker yesterday with Michael Williams. Today, no nameplate.
Pascoe, who appeared in three games last season but did not register any stats, originally joined the Patriots as a free agent in late July, signing a one-year deal worth $600,000. The deal reflected his past output and gave a clear indication of his chances of making the team: he was a camp body. Now, his tenure in New England is over.
The move leaves the Patriots with 87 players on their roster; six of whom are tight ends. Gronkowski and Bennett are roster locks, while Clay Harbor and A.J. Derby are projected to fight for the only remaining spot. Rookies Steven Scheu and Bryce Williams are potential practice squad options and are likely the next tight ends to go as the Patriots continue to trim their roster.