The New England Patriots’ chances of bringing back Dwayne Allen might have taken a hit.
The Patriots officially released Allen on Monday, saving New England $7.3 million in salary cap space for the upcoming season. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported over the weekend the Patriots were interested in re-signing Allen for less money, but the 29-year-old tight end already is drawing interest in free agency, according to multiple reports.
ProFootballTalk reported Monday, citing a source, that Allen had four visits lined up for this week.
ESPN’s Josina Anderson shortly thereafter reported the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, Baltimore Ravens and Detroit Lions have preliminary interest in meeting with Allen, who spent the past two seasons with New England after coming over in a trade from the Indianapolis Colts.
Allen, who had a career-high eight touchdown receptions in 2014, snagged 35 passes for 406 yards with six touchdowns in his final season with Indianapolis in 2016. He was a solid run blocker for New England but failed to make an impact in the passing game, totaling just 13 catches for 113 yards with one touchdown in 29 regular-season games with the Patriots.
The Patriots’ depth at tight end currently consists of Gronkowski, Jacob Hollister, Stephen Anderson and Ryan Izzo, although Gronkowski is contemplating retirement and hasn’t announced yet whether he plans to return for the 2019 season.
