The New England Patriots are trusting that one of their current tight ends can replace part of Rob Gronkowski's production that will be missed in 2019. However, the Patriots will have yet another tight end suspended with Lance Kendricks being suspended for the first game of the season, per Adam Schefter.
Near the beginning of training camp, New England signed Kendricks to a one-year deal to join the team. Kendricks now joins Benjamin Watson as players who will be suspended to kick off the 2019 season. The 31-year-old tight end was suspended for violating the league's substance-abuse policy.
Before joining the Patriots, Kendricks spent the past two seasons with the Green Bay Packers. Due to the Packers having Jimmy Graham, Kendricks was used sparingly in the offense, combining for just 37 receptions for 373 yards and two touchdowns.
The veteran tight end began his career with the then St. Louis Rams and remained with the team until the team moved to Los Angeles in 2016. Kendricks' best season actually came in 2016 when he caught 50 passes for 499 yards and two scores.
The Patriots brought Kendricks in this offseason to have him compete for a spot in the offense. New England typically likes to use some two tight-end sets and there's room for someone to garner a crucial role.
Currently, Matt LaCosse seems to be leading the pack of candidates who will start at tight end in Week 1. Considering that Kendricks will miss the first game of the season, he will have to earn his trust with the coaching staff back.
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