The Patriots could afford upgrading nearly every skill position on the roster, but one spot which they’re in decent shape is tight end.
Hunter Henry has been great throughout his tenure with the franchise, serving as a reliable target for young quarterbacks like Mac Jones, Bailey Zappe and Drake Maye. Austin Hooper was great in his limited role last season, and though he’s currently scheduled to hit free agency, bringing him back would solidify the position for at least one more season.
New England should look to shake things up, though.
Josh McDaniels is back calling plays, which means there are a few changes that need to be made for him to successfully implement the system we all expect him to run next season. Henry, for instance, could use a younger, more athletic tight end to play alongside as he approaches the homestretch of his career.
Harold Fannin Jr. could be that guy.
OVERVIEW
Fannin is coming off one of the most prolific seasons in the history of college football, breaking national records for receiving yards (1,555) and receptions (117) by a tight end — which is kind of ridiculous for a dude out of Bowling Green.
The Falcons recognized his versatility almost immediately, utilizing him as a dynamic offensive weapon who led the team in rushing touchdowns as a freshman. Fannin then became one of the better full-time tight ends in college football during his sophomore season before eventually graduating into elite status.
How does he project at the next level, though?
NFL SCOUTING COMBINE
Fannin didn’t blow anyone out of the water in Indianapolis, but he showcased that his strengths align with exactly what they typically value at One Patriot Place.
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Height: 6′ 4″
Weight: 241lbs
Hand: 9 1/4″
Arm: 32 1/4″
40-Yard Dash: 4.71 seconds
Vertical Jump: 34″
Broad Jump: 9′ 10″
3-Cone Drill: 6.97 seconds
20-Yard Shuttle: 4.39 seconds
Bench Press: 22 reps
STRENGTHS
Fannin will have zero issues getting open at the next level, as very few prospects run better routes than he does — regardless of position. Fannin is a technician, and for as much as we hate that term talking about a football player, you can see how precise he is in every movement.
New England would specifically love his versatility, as well, as he played inline (43.6%), in the slot (28.6%) and out wide (27.8%) in 2024, per PFF.
Fannin’s experience as a running back also helps after the catch, as he displays elite vision and instincts, while also showing up as a willing blocker in the run game.
WEAKNESSES
Fannin put on weight in preparation of the scouting combine, only to see his speed take a noticeable hit during testing drills.
The NFL isn’t very kind to undersized tight ends, so there will be a sacrifice depending on his playing weight. Fannin could be pigeonholed into a “move” role that would see its success be dependent upon the creativity of an offensive play-caller and the talent of his fellow tight ends — which brings us to our big question.
HOW VALUABLE CAN A TIGHT END BE?
Does that tight end play for Josh McDaniels?
McDaniels has an incredible ability to implement versatile tight ends, having done so with the likes of Aaron Hernandez, Martellus Bennett and Jonnu Smith to varying levels of success.
Fannin could be the next in that line, as New England’s need for dynamic playmakers is large enough that it doesn’t necessarily matter what their primary position is. The Patriots have plenty of needs to address in free agency, but if they find themselves in a position to draft the best player available late on Day 2, keep your eye on this young man.
