Patriots Waive TE Tim Wright, Good News For Davis, Derby?
 The Patriots are releasing TE Tim Wright according to sources. Wright caught 26 passes for 259 yards and six touchdowns in 2014. (USA TODAY Images) |
The Patriots have informed TE Tim Wright that he will be released according to Fox Sports and other sources.
This one falls into the category of a surprise for as much of the timing as the release itself. Wright was not considered a lock for the roster but after a fairly productive season in 2014, he was considered a front runner for the 53 man roster.
Wright caught 26 passes for 259 yards and six touchdowns in 2014. His red-zone production was something that was boon to the offense in the middle part of the season. But his playing time decreased down the stretch and he barely saw the field in the playoffs during the Super Bowl run.
With the signing of Scott Chandler it was naturally assumed that he and Rob Gronkowski would be the two starters and receive the majority of the looks from QB Tom Brady. Chandler, 6’7, 260, is a big target and can stretch the seams of the defense. He can line up in-line or split wide.
Wright at 6’4, 225 is considered more of a “move” tight end or just a bigger WR and his release at such an early juncture before mini-camp signals that the team had no plans for him this season.
The Patriots tight end position is still deep with Gronk and Chandler, former Redskin Fred Davis, Michael Hoomanawanui, FB/TE James Develin and rookie draft pick A.J. Derby. The team is also moving DE Jake Bequette to tight end this spring as well.
Judging this at face value….it would seem to indicate a good sign for Davis. Derby has plenty of time to develop but for a third target in the passing game, Wright was considered the guy this spring. With him being released this soon, perhaps it signifies that Davis is rounding back into his 2011 form. Or that Derby is much farther along in his development than thought possible.
This will bear watching once training camp begins.
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