The Patriots didn’t address its need at tight end in April’s draft but they could fill the Rob Gronkowski-sized void at the position with a veteran option.
According to ESPN, New England is hosting former Saints tight end Benjamin Watson on Thursday as the 38-year-old decided to play another season instead of retiring.
Former Saints’ TE Benjamin Watson, who had intended to retire, is in New England today visiting with the Patriots, per source. Watson also is considering the Chiefs, Bills and 49ers. His retirement didn’t last long.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 9, 2019
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The report noted Watson is also considering the Chiefs, Bills and 49ers as potential landing spots for 2019.
New England's depth chart currently features Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Stephen Anderson and Matt LaCosse at tight end.
Watson was drafted in the first round by the Patriots in 2004 and spent six productive seasons with the team with 167 receptions and 20 touchdowns. He then went on to have stints with the Browns, Ravens and Saints.
He played in every game for New Orleans in 2018, logging 35 catches for 400 yards and two touchdowns.
In total, he has 530 catches for 5,885 yards and 44 touchdowns over his 15-year career.
In an NFL Films video released in December, Watson announced his intention to retire at the end of the 2018 season.
"I knew coming into this year that it probably would be the last year. And I think our approach was as a family that we were fortunate to come and play for another year, but you kind of know," Watson said. "It's been great to be a part of this team and have this sort of winning at this point of my career. But the injuries add up, the body struggles more and more. And it becomes evident that it's time.”
It seems Watson believes he still has something left in the tank.