FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 22: A general view as fireworks are set off prior to the AFC Championship Game between the New England Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium on January 22, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)Ben Watson is back with the New England Patriots, as the team has apparently re-signed him as expected. New England had previously released Watson last week.
The 38-year-old tight end came out of retirement this offseason to sign with the Patriots, who originally drafted him back in 2004. Watson spent his first six NFL seasons in New England.
However, a suspension for testing positive for a banned performance enhancing substance cost Watson the first four games of this season. He was released by the Patriots on October 7.
WBZTV’s Steve Burton first reported Watson’s official return today.
Done deal. The Patriots have just re-signed tight end Ben Watson. #WBZ
— STEVE BURTON (@STEVEBURTONWBZ) October 15, 2019
In his career, Watson has amassed 530 receptions for 5,885 yards and 46 touchdowns. He’s also played in 12 postseason games.
New England has struggled to find consistency at the tight end position after Rob Gronkowski’s retirement this offseason. The team has used Ryan Izzo and Matt LaCosse this season, and now it looks like Watson will get a shot as well.
Of course, Gronk could always opt to return to football at some point, which he has hinted at doing.
