Report: Patriots to Host Tight End Visanthe Shiancoe for Free-Agent Visit

by Ricky Doyle on Thu, Jul 19, 2012 at 8:53AM

There's something about the Patriots and tight ends this offseason.

The Patriots will host veteran tight end Visanthe Shiancoe for a free-agent visit on Thursday, according to NFL Network's Steve Wyche.

While Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez are firmly implanted as New England's top two at the position, the Pats have sought depth, and Daniel Fells could find himself with some competition for the No. 3 spot on the roster if Shiancoe impresses.

Shiancoe has played with the Giants and Vikings over the course of his nine-year career, with most of his damage coming in Minnesota. The 32-year-old caught 36 passes for 409 yards and three touchdowns last season. His best campaign came in 2009, when he racked up a career-high 56 catches for 566 yards and 11 touchdowns while playing alongside Brett Favre.

Shiancoe reportedly turned down a one-year, $1.2 million offer from the Seahawks last month, so it'll be interesting to see what he's seeking from other teams, including the Patriots.

Photo via Flickr/xoque