Patriots Sign Fred Davis, Free Agent Adds to Depth at Tight End Position
The Patriots have signed tight end Fred Davis formerly of the Washington Redskins.
NFL Insider Ian Rapoport broke the news on Monday that Davis has agreed to a one-year deal with the Pats according to a source close to the deal. He’ll join the now crowded roster with Rob Gronkowski, Scott Chandler, Michael Hoomanawanui, Tim Wright and 6th Round draft choice A.J. Derby.
Davis was just re-instated to the NFL after being suspended indefinitely in February of last year for repeated violations of the NFL's substance-abuse policy. He missed all of the 2014 season.
Davis has played six seasons in the NFL, all with the Redskins. He has 162 career receptions for 2,043 yards and 13 touchdowns from 2008 to 2013. He had career highs in 2011 with 59 receptions for 796 yards. But since then he's compiled just 31 catches for 395 yards. He missed time with an Achilles injury and then the suspension for substance abuse.
Davis is looking to re-capture that 2011 magic and if healthy and ready to contribute, he could work his way onto the roster and be a productive player once again. He’ll compete for that third tight end position with Hooman, Wright and Derby.
Derby isn’t yet cleared for working out yet after a knee procedure so, Davis will have a leg up on him at least. Only so-so in the blocking game, Davis may find a niche as the flex tight end out wide.
Overall this is a good quality signing by the Patriots. Bill Belichick, by only offering a one-year deal has set the bar low, with little risk and a potential high reward. Davis is far from a roster lock at this stage of his career but could play himself into a nice payday next spring if his 2015 is a successful one with the Patriots. Playing with Tom Brady should help boost his stat numbers if he makes the roster.
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