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4 Ripple effects of Michael Williams being placed on injured reserve

By Connor Fulton

Oct 25, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Michael Williams (85) is tackled by New York Jets inside linebacker Demario Davis (56) during the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 25, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Michael Williams (85) is tackled by New York Jets inside linebacker Demario Davis (56) during the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /
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Michael Williams Patriots
Dec 27, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New England Patriots tight end Michael Williams (85) stretches for pass during the fourth quarter against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. New York Jets defeat the New England Patriots 26-20 in OT. Mandatory Credit: Jim O /

3. Chances of the Patriots taking another offensive lineman on the final roster increase.

Williams had a clear role with the Patriots, and it had to do with Bill Belichick’s favorite intangible: versatility. On one snap, you might see Williams acting like a sixth offensive lineman for a power run play; on another, you can find Williams actually navigating his way through coverage trying to get open for Tom Brady.

Predicting Patriots depth chart: Pre-minicamp edition

However, with lethal aerial attack targets Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett already at Brady’s disposal, in addition to usual suspects Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola and Dion Lewis (among others, of course), any and all value Williams brought to the passing game is negligable right now. The Patriots may be better off sticking with just three tight ends and adding an extra offensive lineman to make up for the loss of Williams’ blocking contributions.

Who will that third tight end be, you may be wondering…

Next: 2. Harbor, Derby lead the way for No. 3 TE

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