Patriots inform tight end Dwayne Allen they intend to release him
The Patriots are releasing Dwayne Allen in order to save money and cap space, but reportedly won’t rule out a potential return for the former Colts tight end.
Nov 12, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots tight end Dwayne Allen (83) celebrates his touchdown reception in the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Ron Chenoy/USA TODAY Sports
Ron Chenoy/USA TODAY SportsNov 12, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots tight end Dwayne Allen (83) celebrates his touchdown reception in the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Patriots have reportedly informed tight end Dwayne Allen that they intend to release him. ESPN's Adam Schefter was first to report the news on Twitter.
Allen was due $7.3 million in salary and bonuses in the 2019 season. The Patriots save that plus the cap hit by releasing him. According to Schefter, the Patriots expressed interest in bringing Allen back for less money after he hits unrestricted free agency.
Coming over in 2017 from a trade with the Colts for a fourth-round draft pick, Allen proved useful as a run blocker but never caught on as a receiver. He caught just 13 passes on 26 targets for 113 yards and a touchdown in 29 games with the Patriots.
The tight end position has a chance for significant turnover in 2019. Rob Gronkowski is under contract for the season, but reportedly is still mulling retirement. In addition, head coach Bill Belichick and the Patriots' expected new defensive coordinator Greg Schiano were shown watching the tight end drills at the NFL Combine on Saturday in Indianapolis.
Allen's release is far from surprising, considering his price tag and the lack of dead cap money. He isn't likely to see offers that significantly outnumber anything he'd receive from the Patriots, so a return at a sharp discount shouldn't be ruled out at this point. The 28-year-old will be entering his eighth NFL season.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
