The New England Patriots had one of their worst seasons in franchise history in 2023, finishing with the second record in the league and earning the third overall pick in the draft.
With all of the problems at quarterback, New England wasn't able to use their group of tight ends to their fullest potential, but they still produced a bit.
During this offseason, the Patriots have made a few changes at the position, so before training camp kicks off, let's refamiliarize ourselves with the team's tight end room.
Hunter Henry
Henry is entering his fourth season in New England after receiving a three-year extension this offseason that will pay him $27 million.
He's been fairly productive with the Patriots, recording 133 receptions for 1,531 yards and 17 scores over his first three years. His ability as a blocker and receiver should make him a go-to guy in the middle of the field for either Jacoby Brissett or Drake Maye.
Austin Hooper
Hooper is joining the Patriots for his first year in 2024 after spending time with the Atlanta Falcons (2016-19), Cleveland Browns (2020-21), Tennessee Titans (2022) and Las Vegas Raiders (2023).
The two-time Pro Bowler did some great things during his final two years in Atlanta but hasn't been able to recapture that magic again since. Considering he's one of the few veterans at this position, he likely has a spot on the roster, and he'll be used as a pass catcher in Alex Van Pelt's offense, which he played in for two years in Cleveland.
Mitchell Wilcox
Wilcox signed with New England this offseason after spending his first four years in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals. In his career, he's recorded 29 receptions for 211 yards and a touchdown.
On a one-year deal worth just $1.08 million in 2024, Wilcox's spot on the roster is far from guaranteed. However, if the 28-year-old shows enough as a run-blocker, he could earn a role.
La'Michael Pettway
Pettway is entering his second year with the Patriots after he signed with the practice squad in December and the active roster in January after spending time with the Indianapolis Colts.
The 27-year-old is yet to play in an NFL game, so he'll be fighting for the last roster spot or one on the practice squad.
Jaheim Bell
Bell was New England's seventh-round pick in this year's draft out of Florida State. In his one season as a Seminole, he recorded 39 receptions for 503 yards and two touchdowns.
He displayed some impressive athleticism as a pass-catcher, and he could be used in a hybrid tight end/fullback roll. Bell could earn one of the last roster spots, or the Patriots could try and sneak him to the practice squad.
Jacob Warren
Warren was signed as an undrafted free agent this year out of Tennessee. At 6-foot-6 and 251 pounds, he has the size to be a legitimate option in the NFL.
In college, Warren recorded 53 receptions for 607 yards. He'll have to prove himself as a blocker and on special teams if he wants to make it in the NFL.
