The New England Patriots replaced Tom Brady with former NFL MVP Cam Newton early this offseason, now they could be looking to replace Rob Gronkowski with Delanie Walker.
Walker, 35, is a three-time Pro Bowl selection who will be looking to prove himself after a disappointing end to his stint with the Tennessee Titans.
Patriots interested in tight end Delanie Walker
New England has been in the market for a tight end since Gronkowski retired before the 2019 season. With Walker still available and now healthy after being released in March, the two sides could make something happen before the season begins.
Of course, the Patriots won’t be the only team pursuing Walker. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, he has received interest from multiple clubs around the NFL and is preparing himself to be ready for the upcoming season.
Walker joined the Titans in 2013 and quickly became an integral part of their offense. After racking up 80 receiving yards in 2014, he exploded the next year with 94 receptions and 1,088 receiving yards. Walker earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl in 2015 and he earned the incredible honor in each of his next two seasons.
Injuries limited Walker to eight games in his final two seasons with the Titans, ending his stint on a sour note. Across seven seasons in Tennessee, the 35-year-old hauled in 381 receptions for 4,423 receiving yards and 28 touchdowns.
Walker reportedly drew attention from the Green Bay Packers and Indianapolis Colts earlier this offseason. If he is healthy and can prove himself, the 350year-old should have no problem landing a contract before the regular season begins.