The Patriots upgraded their tight end room in a big way this offseason by signing both Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry, making one member of that room expendable. New England is trading away Ryan Izzo to the Texans, a source told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network (Twitter link).
Houston will send back a seventh-round pick for Izzo. The news comes just moments after we heard the Texans were releasing tight end Darren Fells. The position was a huge weak spot for the Patriots in 2020, as Izzo led the team’s tight ends in yards… with 199. The Pats originally drafted Izzo 250th overall back in 2018, and now they’re getting that seventh-rounder back.
Without Fells the Texans only had Jordan Akins, former practice squader Pharaoh Brown, and 2019 third-round pick Kahala Warring (three career catches) at the position, so the acquisition of Izzo can’t hurt.
A Florida State product, Izzo started all 12 games that he appeared in last season. He didn’t do a ton as the Patriots’ whole passing game struggled, but it’s a low-risk move for the Texans on a player that’s still only 25. Obviously there’s a connection between these front offices, with former New England exec Nick Caserio now running the show in Houston.
Still no Deshaun Watson article?
why should there be? If you want sensationalized news NOT about football go to fox or CNN. If you want football news keep looking here. Glad to see a sports website that keeps the discussion about sports. This is not a defense or downplaying of the accusations against Watson, just don’t need to see that stuff in this site.
What’s going on with him will heavily affect his trade prospects, so it news that deals with football moron.
Thanks do much for your educated and articulate contribution.
Moron….way to keep it civil. Now i understand why you want Watson stories. Hurry to the supermarket, the newest National Enquirer just arrived!
ESPN has covered the accusations against Watson ((and at this point it’s accusations but now at least 3)). It does have a big impact on his trade market as suitors will be hesitant to pursue him now, especially since the Texans would be asking for a lot in return.
If Watson is no longer going to be pursued (good bet right now) then that leaves Wilson and maybe Garoppolo as potential QB trade options and more focus back on the top QBs via the draft
They will also draft a TE to stash on the practice squad & release LaCosse IMHO.
Probably could have drafted a better TE prospect instead of giving up a pick.
Izzo is ready to play pro bowl and is at full adult weight and strength. Pro tight end is not a position for college boys: requires strength, savvy and finesse. Although based on the picture Izzo might not be there: looks a little soft.
Looks like the Pats got an upgrade on pick position. Assuming it’s Houston’s own 7th round pick, it should be a lot earlier than 250.