New England Patriots: 53-man roster projection after two preseason games

(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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FOXBOROUGH, MA – AUGUST 9 : Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots looks on before the preseason game between the New England Patriots and the Washington Redskins at Gillette Stadium on August 9, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
FOXBOROUGH, MA – AUGUST 9 : Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots looks on before the preseason game between the New England Patriots and the Washington Redskins at Gillette Stadium on August 9, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Tight End & Fullback (4): Dwayne Allen, James Develin, Jacob Hollister, Rob Gronkowski

The same four return from last season in this group, highlighted by All-Pro Rob Gronkowski. Develin received a two-year contract extension this offseason and continues to look like one of the best fullbacks in the league. Develin has become a crucial part of the Patriots offense, as he keeps defenses on their toes in their play-calling and can help create mismatches in the passing game.

Second year tight end Jacob Hollister has impressed throughout training camp, connecting well with Brady. Brady has even been seen working with the young tight end during down-time and after practice in private sessions.

"“Jacob improved a lot last year and he’s gotten off to a good start this year from the offseason program to our spring workouts to the start of training camp,” Bill Belichick said via Patriots.com. “He’s still got a long way to go. He has a lot of football in front of him. He didn’t have a lot of experience – had some – but has gained a lot and will gain a lot more. I think he’s got a great future. He works hard, he’s a tough kid, he plays hard, practices hard and has become much better at his fundamentals and techniques at his position.”"

Dwayne Allen could be the only one in danger due to his $5 million salary, but his value as a blocker should keep him around another season.