New England Patriots’ former third-rounder is another team’s savior

The New England Patriots TE Devin Asiasi was released this Tuesday. Shortly after, the Cincinnati Bengals acquired him off waivers.

In 2020, It’s no secret that the New England Patriots missed on their third-round draft pick. The Patriots drafted Devin Asiasi who has struggled to contribute to the team during his tenure on the Patriots. Recently, he was cut by New England, however, he was quickly picked up off waivers by the Cincinnati Bengals, reported Albert Breer for Sports Illustrated.

What makes the former Patriots compelling to the Bengals?

It appears Asiasi will have another shot to prove his worth in the NFL. Ironically, this time with an even more equipped team to contend for the Super Bowl. He will be joining the likes of Bengals star QB Joe Burrow and star WR Ja’Marr Chase alongside a ton of other talented stars on that offense. The Bengals are coming off a historic run to the Super Bowl and losing in the final seconds of the game. The lingering question remains, “What interest would the Bengals have in Asiasi?”

Bengals releasing deep threat TE C.J. Uzomah has left them very thin at the position. They’re left with Hayden Hurst and backup Drew Sample who’s dealt with injury issues in the past. This connection to signing Asiasi off waivers appears to be simply adding depth and possibly contributing if called upon with the injury history of Sample. One would agree that this makes sense for the Bengals and gives the opportunity for Asiasi to change his narrative as well.

Why didn’t Asiasi work out with the Patriots?

In sports, many would agree that sometimes the best ability is availability. Sadly, Asiasi, similarly to Sample, struggled with injury throughout his tenure at the Pats. In the third round, Patriots HC Bill Belichick attempted to follow his historic drafting of Future Hall of Famer Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez in 2011. Belichick attempted to draft Dalton Keene alongside Asiasi, however, both combined for five career catches, tweeted Dov Kleiman.

Again, while it wasn’t a match made in heaven, the Patriots did want him to remain on the practice squad before learning he was claimed by the Bengals, according to Mike Reiss for ESPN.

“The Bengals have claimed TE Devin Asiasi, who was present at Gillette Stadium ready to join the NE practice squad.”

Not to mention, this was by no means a bad breakup. In fact, Asiasi’s father, Dave Asiasi, tweeted his feelings about the situation.

“Thank you for believing in my son and developing his game. Forever indebted to you sir and the Patriots Organization. Alofa atu coach.”