Which TE benefits most from Ben Watson's suspension?
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - The New England Patriots were already thin at the tight end position, which is why they had grabbed 38-year-old Ben Watson in the first place this offseason. Now, Watson has shared that he will be facing a four-game suspension to start off the 2019 season, which puts a hold on any plans they had for the veteran.
Where do the Patriots stand at the tight end position now that Watson, who was going to be the presumed starter at tight end, will not be available for the month of September?
The remaining tight ends on the roster are Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Matt LaCosse, Stephen Anderson, Ryan Izzo, and Andrew Beck. Izzo was on IR for his rookie season, but the former seventh rounder would have to have a massive showing in training camp is he wants to earn any playing time. Anderson may see an uptick in snaps, along with Beck, who was an UDFA from Texas that New England signed after the draft this year. The latter may not make it through the final roster cuts, though. LaCosse would get the leg up on Anderson because of his pass-catching ability and athleticism, which may give him a type of reserve role within the offense. Seferian-Jenkins looks to be the biggest beneficiary of Watson’s suspension, as he has the most talent/experience from the remainder of the TE pool after Watson.
Playing against Pittsburgh, Miami, New York (Jets), and Buffalo could be an ideal opportunity for Seferian-Jenkins to prove he has what it takes to be not only a starter but also a playmaker within the Patriots offense while Watson is sidelined. The key for him is staying healthy, which he has struggled mightily with throughout his career.
Even when Watson returns in Week 5, there is no guarantee that he will be the de facto starter at tight end. The lack of proven ability amongst the other tight ends on the roster was the reason Watson is penciled in as the starter heading into the season. That is why it is crucial for Seferian -Jenkins to shine in the month of September if he wants to still be a big piece of the offense when the 38-year-old returns from his suspension.
