The New England Patriots wasted little time upgrading their pass-catching group at the start of the legal tampering period on Monday by landing Jonnu Smith.

New England has reportedly signed former Tennessee Titans tight end to a four-year, $50 million deal. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported the deal includes $31.25 million guaranteed.

The Pats were quite high on Smith. Michael Giardi of NFL Network said Jonnu Smith was New England's “number one” target.

This might not come as a surprise, considering the success New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has had with game-breaking tight ends.

McDaniels found numerous ways to incorporate former Pats tight end Rob Gronkowski into the offense, exploiting Gronk's size and athleticism by lining him up in the slot and allowing him to operate in the seams.

Smith does not boast the same size as Gronkowski, but he is certainly one of the most athletic players at his position.

The 25-year-old is averaging 11.4 yards per reception. He is one of the top red-zone threats in the game, finishing the 2020 season with eight touchdowns. Tennessee even found ways to involve him in trick plays.

Smith has the speed to take on opposing secondaries down the field. He can also move all over the field and has terrific hands.

New England could face a potential transitory period offensively. The Pats re-signed Cam Newton, but they might still draft a quarterback next month. It also remains to be seen whether they will dangle former first-round pick N'Keal Harry on the trade market, or if Julian Edelman will play in 2021.

For now, though, the Patriots were aggressive in landing a top offensive target in Smith.