The Patriots are advised to acquire an offensive weapon that Mike Vrabel is familiar with. – For the 2026 season, the New England Patriots have great hopes.
Last year, the squad unexpectedly advanced all the way to the Super Bowl before falling to the Seattle Seahawks. The squad may consider adding even more weapons if they intend to compete in 2026.
Fortunately, head coach Mike Vrabel is familiar with a dependable weapon who is still available as a free agency.
Jonnu Smith may fit right in New England.
The top remaining free agents’ best fits were recently determined by Moe Moton of Bleacher Report. Moton believes the Patriots make the most sense for seasoned tight end Jonnu Smith.
Smith is a seasoned pass-catcher with prior Vrabel experience. We know the veteran is still a competent athlete because he had a Pro Bowl bid with the Miami Dolphins as recently as 2024.
Moton made the following offer in relation to this potential signing:
Julian Hill, the reserve tight end for the Patriots, will miss the 2026 season due to a knee injury. While the coaching staff trains rookie third-round pick Eli Raridon as the position’s future, New England can add Smith.
Compared to Austin Hooper, who caught 21 receptions for 263 yards and two scores with the team the previous season, Smith would be a more explosive secondary tight end. In 2026, the Patriots may field a more effective pass-catching tight end tandem by pairing him with Hunter Henry.
Hunter Henry is undeniably the best tight end for the Patriots, but they may use a better backup. Julian Hill already sustained a season-ending injury this summer, and Austin Hooper departed for the Atlanta Falcons in free agency.
Eli Raridon, a rookie selected in the third round, will be the Patriots’ backup tight end if Smith is not added.
As was already mentioned, Smith’s experience with Vrabel makes it logical for him to travel to New England. Smith might move to New England with former Titans Kevin Byard, Harold Landry, Robert Spillane, Mike Brown, and A.J. Brown.
Can the Patriots win this year’s Super Bowl?
Whether the Patriots can make it all the way in 2026 will be interesting to watch. A.J. Brown took the position of top receiver Stefon Diggs. Alijah Vera-Tucker was signed to the offensive line, while Dre’Mont Jones and Kevin Byard were the best defensive signings.
It would be foolish to rule out the Patriots if Drake Maye can return to his former level of performance. The Patriots are ready to compete once more in 2026 thanks to their potent offensive line, excellent ground game, and formidable defense.
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