The 2025 New England Patriots saw the return of both Josh McDaniels and his trusty fullback. After signing Giovanni Ricci in the spring, New England opted to cut ties following the signing of Northern Illinois UDFA Brock Lampe.
Lampe would be placed on IR with an undisclosed injury, and Jack Westover, who was active for one game in 2024, replaced him after making the transition from tight end.
The former Washington Husky had a single catch for no yardage during the regular season, but had his second career catch for an 8-yard first down in the wildcard round of the playoffs against the Chargers.
Westover's role is, however, in major jeopardy. This offseason, New England signed Reggie Gilliam to a three-year deal worth nearly $11 million. The likelihood of keeping a second fullback on the roster isn't high.
Jack Westover could be traded to a team like the Ravens this offseason
The Ravens have a new coaching staff this season, but I'd expect them to continue focusing on the running game with Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry in the backfield. Pat Ricard, who held the fullback role for nine seasons, followed John Harbaugh to the Giants this offseason and hasn't been replaced.
New head coach Jesse Minter, formerly of the Chargers, isn't afraid of power football. The Chargers routinely used Scott Matlock and Tucker Fisk as jumbo fullbacks to open up the run game, so I wouldn't expect him to abandon the position with Baltimore.
Westover played at least 20 snaps from Week 17 to the AFCCG, five straight weeks. He played 20+ snaps once, aside from that streak.
The Ravens sending a seventh-round pick with the condition that he plays in at least one game this season seems fair. If he's to be cut in camp, no harm done; if he does become a contributor, New England gets a small reward.
Given the use of Khyiris Tonga and Thayer Munford as secondary fullbacks to Westover, keeping both Gilliam and Westover isn't impossible, particularly if Westover is to show upside as a third tight end as well as a secondary fullback and special teamer. A seventh-round pick, however, is likely more valuable than Westover in that especially niche role.
Time will tell, but Westover looks to be surplus to requirements following the addition of Reggie Gilliam, and if they can get something for him in a trade, they should no doubt look into it.
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