The New England Patriots have finally found a quality tight end in the post-Rob Gronkowski era.
The Pats reportedly have agreed to a four-year, $50 million contract with free agent tight end Jonnu Smith that includes $31 million in guaranteed money, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Tight end was a major need for the Patriots entering NFL free agency. New England tight ends ranked dead last in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns last season. It was a major weak spot in the offense, and Smith should be a massive upgrade both in terms of pass-catching and blocking.
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Smith's eight receiving touchdowns in 2020 were nearly three times as many as all Patriots tight ends.
2021 NFL free agency tracker: Latest signings, trades and rumors
Here's what Patriots fans should know about Smith.
Drafted: Third round (100th overall), 2017 by Tennessee Titans
New England Patriots
Age: 25
Height/Weight: 6-foot-3, 248 pounds
2020 Stats: 41 receptions (65 targets) for 448 yards and eight touchdowns
Patriots Roster Update (Tight ends)
Jonnu Smith, Ryan Izzo, Devin Asiasi, Dalton Keene, Matt LaCosse
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